Hi Everyone
I am still signed off work, but due to go back on Monday with my new working hours. I am pleased that I will only do till lunch time, but worried as my wages will drop by £200 a month. I don't earn a lot of money but really enjoy my job as a teaching assistant for special needs children.
I have had a steroid injection and due to have a top up this week as I haven't had much relief so far from swelling and pain.
I don't qualify for an increase in child tax credits as our combined wages don't drop below the threshold.
HELP, what else am I entitled to? I am in the process of claiming for DLA, even if I am entitled to the lowest amount it would be a help.
I do want to try and keep working although the fatigue and swelling gets me down. But I am willing to give it a go.
Would be lovely to hear any of your advice.
Jo
Comments
I am glad that you are feeling slightly better and you have managed to cut down your hours. I am glad that your school as been sympathetic to you. I am sure you will feel better. You may be able to increase them again the future if things settle down.
Yes, apply for DLA. I know you can apply for tax credits for health reasons - there is a list of conditions that you must have. Might be worth a look into. I don't know much about it, just an idea.
Rest up this week before you go back.
Take care
Fayann xxx
I do hope the reduced hours help you be able to STAY at work
Have you tried making an appt with CAB to discuss all the benefit options - they are so quick with there calculators that they would know in a flash if ther is anything you can try.
Love
Toni xx
Toni xxx
You'll feel better now that you've cut your hours. Make sure you leave work on time. The danger of cutting hours is that some people think you'll do the same amount of work in the same amount of time.
The less hours you work the less tax you should pay.
You could ask the Citizen's Advice Bureau for advice or check direct.gov online for advice.
Good luck with everything.
Sharmaine
I reduced my hours by only 4 hours a week and over the month that is quite a chunck of money but it is worth it just to have that extra time off. I increased my days to 3 x 6 hours and it means I get monday and friday of so each weekend is a long weekend. It really is great and I'm feeling so much more positive about myself. Also the kids and hubby benefit because I'm not ratty all the time and I've got time for them again. Just little changes can make a big difference. So I can honestly say that money wise we find it harder but it is worth it to feel happpier.
Speedy
I can't help with benefit questions I am just dropping in to say Good look on monday with your new hours.
Make sure in the afternoon you take a rest.
JuliePF x
Thanks Julie, I am so relieved that I have a caring boss! I will in deed have a rest when I get home. I will be able to have my lunch at home with my 3 little poodles. Looking forward to it!
Hopefully I won't be as warn out and I will be able to get the evening meal ready and do a little housework.
Thanks for your kind words
Jo x
I have been back at work for 2 days now and it has been so lovely to see everyone. My Boss has been especially protective of me and has asked me to keep her posted about how I am feeling and if I am coping ok. I am so lucky that I have had my hours reduced so easily.
I am managing ok, but I am ready to come home and put my feet up by 12.30. The steriod injections have helped with the pain, but I am still very swollen..It's such a relief to know I don't have to struggle on anymore and I am so thankful to all of you for your support.
I have a Rheumy appointment in November and I will be discussing my treatment, as my Consultant was considering Anti TFl treatment. I think this is correct. Not sure :?
I have applied for a blue badge and I am trying to claim DLA. As my Son has to do more and more for me. Cooking meals, helping me dress etc.
But I shall adapt to my new hours and pay even if I don't get any help.
Love to you all
Joxx
Well done you! All sounding as though it is going to plan then.
Great to be back and good for you emotionally I can tell - great boss (Bliss) and DLA applied for . Rheumy appt next month.
I am so very pleased for you
Love
Toni xx
Toni xxx