On IB and possibly going back to work - a few questions

cifpower

I have been on IB for over 2 years and also receive IS and DLA (LRM & MRC). I have been diagnosed as been bi-polar and am regularly seeing a Psychiatrist. I have also been on a course of medication since September which seems to be helping.

Lately I have been considering going back to work and as a result I have 2 interviews - one this Wednesday and one towards the end of the month. I really hope things go alright but I have a few questions if they don't.

If it turns out I cannot cope with being back at work will I be able to go back onto IB at the rate I left or will I go back onto the bottom rung? I have been through a medical and been awarded enough points but will I have to start sending in sick notes again and fill in the dreaded IB50 again?

I know my DLA will not be affected as that has been awarded until December 09. I am just worried that I will find things too stressful or my panic attacks will come back to haunt me. :eek:_pale_

All that said I think it is time to put a toe in the work pool again. My doctor and psychiatrist have been very understanding of my condition and believe they will will support me whatever happens. :j

Careful_with_that_Axe

Two friends of mine are bi-polar and both work part-time after quite some time on IB - part-time to ease themselves back into work without too much stress. Both are lucky enough to have very supportive employers and one is able to work from home when she doesn't feel up to going into the office.
Wonderful that you are feeling well enough to try to get back to work.

Fingers crossed for your interviews. Post back and let us know how you got on?

All the best
J

cifpower

Careful_with_that_Axe wrote: »

Two friends of mine are bi-polar and both work part-time after quite some time on IB - part-time to ease themselves back into work without too much stress. Both are lucky enough to have very supportive employers and one is able to work from home when she doesn't feel up to going into the office.
Wonderful that you are feeling well enough to try to get back to work.

Fingers crossed for your interviews. Post back and let us know how you got on?

All the best
J

I had considered PT but financially I needed FT. I believe the first interview will include an aptitude test. Never done one before so that will be interesting! :rotfl:

I have become worried in the past few months about people being forced off IB and scared about being labelled a sponger. So I thought finding a job would be the best thing to do.

Valley's_girl

Just want to wish you good luck for your interviews and best wishes for your future.
Ally x

NAF_3

Cif, bear in mind that the rules for Northern Ireland and Great Britain are different in places, not that I am certain you are from NI. Just a guess based on your Sig.

If you are in NI then this site http://www.dsdni.gov.uk/index/ssa/benefit_information/a-z_of_benefits/incapacity_benefit_gbi.htm#former may be of some use. Permitted Work may be something you are interested in.

cifpower

It wasn't an interview today. It was a test in 3 sections - maths and speed and accuracy tests. This is how they recruit. Quite relieved actually - not fond of interviews! Should find out the result within a week.

dmg24

Good luck! x

lil_me

Good luck.

Careful_with_that_Axe

Slightly off-topic, but I have just read a fantastic book on bi-polarity called An Unquiet Mind by an American woman sufferer. Can't remember her name as I've passed book onto friend to read. You may find it interesting and informative to read. If buying is a problem, once I get it back from other friend - maybe 2 weeks or so, I would be happy to post it to you if you were interested in reading it.
Have a think and if you would be interested, PM me your address.

Good luck with everything.
J

sinbin_72

I think I remeber reading that you have to specifically mention that you want to be linked to the option of going back on the same benefits if the job doesn't work out for you. There are some conditions aswell such as it has to be a permanent job with a contract of more than just a few months(i think). I'm sure others would be better help to you as I don't want to say too much and give you worng information.

Best of luck to you. It's a step im considering too after 2 years off work with Stevens Johnson Syndrome. I fully respect you for trying to go back to work.

cifpower

Well I received a letter yesterday about the aptitude test I sat:

I am pleased to advise you that you achieved a score of 62.74. This places you in the top group of candidates and we are now proceeding to complete pre-appointment formalities.

This has to be good news.