PTSD from work - will I be sanctioned if I resign

ABCDE1977

Briefly - I have PTSD directly attributable to my work situation going back 5 years when I whistleblew around bullying. I can negotiate being triggered usually but 3 months ago I went full blown due to manager/organisation issues and became suicidal (there have been 3 suicides in my organisation in the last 5 years, I am not at that point now). I have been off sick since - full pay allowable for 6 months. Work are giving me a wide berth and not following their own policies (no change there) - I could go the grievance route, I could try for ill health retirement but to be honest - they've done me and the place is so toxic no matter what reasonable adjustments' are put in place it's highly likely I'll get triggered again and it scares me.

I am in contact with my union also taking advice from them but if I'm honest, its bail out time. I am signed off - IF I resign - I reckon I'll be sanctioned but my health is damaged if I stay. I'm in a lose lose scenario so any advice no matter how random to help me navigate this would help as my thoughts just won't come together logically at the moment.

Alice_Holt

My thoughts:

If you resign, then you should be able to claim ESA (due to ill health) you will not face sanctions.
Once your sick pay runs out (and you receive your SSP1 notice) you would claim ESA anyway.

Important info on ESA (eligibility based on last 2 tax years NI contributions):
https://www.gov.uk/employment-support-allowance/eligibility
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/employment-and-support-allowance/
https://www.entitledto.co.uk/help/employment-and-support-allowance-contribution-based

You may also want to look at PIP:
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/pip/
You can claim this now - it's payable whether working or not. The claim process is lengthy.

Neither these are means-tested.

Depending on savings and circumstances you should also look at UC (particularly if you have rent to pay) and Council Tax reduction.
As you left due to ill health (confirmed by being signed off) you should not be sanctioned by UC.  

HillStreetBlues

One thing to consider is the Work Capability Assessment you will have at some point when on ESA. You will either be declared fit for work, fit to look for work, or unfit to do either.
The longer you stay in employment, the bigger delay in having a WCA.