If you’re balancing a long-term health condition alongside your career, you may be able to access a number of benefit schemes for extra support with staying in or returning to work.
In many cases, employees and employers aren’t fully aware of the benefits and additional support available to them. Here’s a quick guide to help you.
Government-funded benefit schemes for people with disabilities
There are a range of Government-funded benefit schemes available for those who are:
- Currently looking for work
- Temporarily unable to work
- Supporting a family
- Living with a disability or health condition
- Caring for someone
- On a low income
- Recently bereaved
A number of benefit schemes are gradually being replaced with Universal Credit allowances. Head to the Government website to explore your options in more detail.
For more information about benefits and Government-backed financial support, consider speaking with your local Disability Employment Advisor. They’ll also be able to help with assessing your eligibility.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can help you with extra living expenses if you have:
- A long-term physical mental health condition or disability
AND
- Difficulty carrying out everyday tasks or getting around because of your condition
You can access PIP even if you’re working, have savings, or if you’re receiving other benefits, too.
PIP provides support on two fronts:
- a daily living part – if you need help with everyday tasks
- a mobility part – if you need help with getting around
You can explore more information PIP via gov.uk.
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
If you have a disability or health condition that affects how much you can work, you may be eligible to receive the Government’s Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
ESA gives you:
- Money to help with living costs if you’re unable to work
- Support to get back into work if you’re able to
You can apply for ESA via gov.uk if you’re employed, self-employed or unemployed.
Access to Work
Access to Work is a Government scheme set up to help you get or stay in work if you have a physical or mental health condition or disability.
The type of support you receive will ultimately depend on your needs, but you can apply for:
- A grant to help pay for practical support with your work
- Support with managing your mental health at work
- Money to pay for communication support at job interviews
To learn more about the eligibility requirements and support options available through the Access to Work, you can explore the Access to Work scheme in detail.
Additional information
There’s a helpful resource available through the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society which outlines your rights and responsibilities in the workplace as an employee with arthritis. To explore this area in more detail, download the free “I Want to Work” guide.
