Work and operation

TracyWatts

Hi all

I’m here as an arthritis sufferer

I have arthritis in many places but it started many years ago in my left knee and, several cortisone injections later, the doctors are suggesting surgery, but…. I can’t afford to take the time off work and my job means being on my feet all day, so I don’t see how this will be possible, or how long I would need to be off work for. Is there any benefits you can claim or help towards this that anyone knows of?

sorry if this has been posted about before, I did try searching 🥴

CarylW

Hello @TracyWatts

I am glad you have found our online community and I hope you get comments and information which are useful. We are a friendly and supportive group.

I understand that you have arthritis in many places, but your left knee is causing real concern as you have a job which means being on your feel all day.

I am posting some links to information on our website which I hope will give you some useful help:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/living-with-arthritis/financial-support/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-knee/

Do keep in touch with us and let us know how you get on.

Best wishes

Caryl

MoWW

@TracyWatts Do you receive sick pay when you are off work? If so check out the work policy relating to this to establish how many weeks you are covered for. Some guidance on sick leave https://www.gov.uk/taking-sick-leave If you only receive SSP, statutory sick pay, your local disability welfare advice service or citizens advice can you a benefit check to give you an idea of what you could claim. Disability advice and guidance | Equality and Human Rights Commission (equalityhumanrights.com) and Benefits and financial support if you're disabled or have a health condition - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

You can also discuss with your employer what adjustments they could make to your role to ensure you are not on your feet all day. Asking for and agreeing reasonable adjustments: Reasonable adjustments at work - Acas Appreciate for some roles this may not be possible, however they may be able to accommodate or provide seating for part of the role.

Hopefully you will be able to find the support you need, @MoWW