Dr.'s given me a sick note. What now?

Tibbie's_mum

My doctor has given me a sick note due to my depression, I'm not working and do not get any benefits, so what do I do with it now?

Many thanks in advance.

cookie08

not being rude but how come you dont get any benefits if you dont work? id ring local jobcentre for advise asap, they should tell you to put in a income support claim if im not mistaken and you will need to send all your sick notes in to them once claim has been dealt with (keep copies of them tho has some offices have an habit of losing them)

all the best

dmg24

Hi Tibbie's Mum,

I remember your recent post so have taken information from there. Please correct me if anything is incorrect.

As you have not worked for several years, it is unlikely that you would be entitled to Incapacity Benefit. However, if you submit your sick note, you will receive NI Credits for the period covered by the sick note.

As your husband is in full time employment, you will not be eligible for Income Support.

It may be worth making a claim for DLA, however this is not dependent on you having a med cert from your GP, you can claim anyway.

Tibbie's_mum

Many thanks for the replies.

I have applied for DLA but I'm worried I might have been too vague with my answers, having read other forums relating to claims. I'm always very careful what I say, especially to the health visitor, as I have 3 children and, although, I do sometimes find it difficult to care for them, they are in no way neglected. It is only my GP and OH who I am totally honest with. I have put my GP down to give a statement on my behalf but I'm worried that my own answers do not reflect how debilitating my condition really is.

I suppose I'll just have to wait for the outcome as there is nothing I can do about it now.

But how much detail is required?

TIA

healy

Really as much detail as you can give is the best thing to do on a Benefits claim. It is also helpful if your GP is fully aware of your problems because they may be asked to write a report in connection with your DLA claim. They may send out a Doctor to see you and do a report for your DLA claim. If your claim is unsuccessful you can always appeal the decision.

Tibbie's_mum

As I expected I have been turned down for DLA. I will appeal but I'm scared of going into minute detail because of my kids. My illness affects my ability to cope with normal situations, stops me being able to communicate and basically look after myself, this could equate in some peoples eyes that I'm an unfit mother. I not sure how to approach this appeal.

[Deleted User]

You say you have a partner(husband?)so the kids arent a problem,my advice is tell it like it is and you will hopefully get the help you deserve,if the appeal fails then wait 3 months and re-apply,giving all the detail you can.
As for this appeal get some help with it,contact your local welfare rights(via local council usually)they may represent you if you have opted for an oral hearing(better chance of success than a written submission),have a look at the yourable website (benefits forum,free) or for £16-50 you could join the benefits and work forum,they have pages and pages of help sheets for dla.
good luck
John