Trying to work

Hello every one.

I had reactive arthritis since December last year. Now last week I got told I have psoriatic arthritis.

I'm at a lost at what to do. I reduced my working days to 4. I was off sick due to the pain from Jan till march as I couldn't even get out of bed or stand.

When I went back despite the doctors suggestion I work part time my boss wanted me to work 6days full time. I pointed out I can't. He reluctantly accepted it. He does provide contracts either.

I'm just worried it coming up to Christmas. I work in a family own shop. There no hr and I can't sit down. So I am standing with the aid of a walking stick or I'm leaning on products, shelves or a desk.

It is going to get busy and I'm struggling as it is. I'm debating to quit. Or try and find a job that part time where I can sit occasionally.

I can't carry much as i lost grip in my hands and have to always ask for help. I use to carry heavy items all the time before this. There are no lift to parts of the shop so I fight with the stairs. I'm struggling to get another job.

Is there somewhere online where I can get advice about jobs that maybe are more suitable. I love working but I need to be more realistic what I can do. I'm on methotrexate and painkillers that only take the edge off in terms of pain. But I'm determined to try and stay postive.


Thank you for any advice.

Comments

  • MammaBuckz
    MammaBuckz Moderator Posts: 38

    Hey @saramidnite

    Welcome to our Online Community. Here you'll find a helpful bunch of people with different types of arthritis and of varying ages.

    It sounds like a difficult situation you're in regard to your employer, but there are rules and legislation that help protect people's rights at work. Your employer has a legal obligation to make 'reasonable adjustments' to your working conditions to ensure you are able to do your job to the best of your ability. I've included a link below which explains your rights and how to get the right support at work.

    If you feel that you would rather move on to other employment, then the National Careers Service UK may be helpful for you. They can help around skills assessments, career choices and training.

    Good luck and let us know how you get on.

    Best wishes

    Mamma Buckz - Moderator

    Need more help - call our Helpline on 0800 5200 520 Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm

  • Hi @saramidnite

    im sorry to hear that you have been going through such a difficult time and battling with work pressures on top of your physical pain and immobility.

    i also have psoriatic arthritis, which began very suddenly 15 years ago. Because I had quite a physically demanding job (nursing,) I decided to be kind to myself and realistic about my physical strength, and went down a different career path (counselling,) that was more flexible time wise and gentler on my body, so lots of opportunities for sitting and resting inbetween clients. I hope you can find a job that suits your needs better, and follow the above guidance for seeking something completely different and more supportive and less pressured physically. Good luck, Rebecca

  • noddingtonpete
    noddingtonpete Moderator Posts: 983

    Hello @Rebeccamason and welcome to the community. I hope that you enjoy your time here. In addition to the information provided earlier in this discussion you might also find the following to be of interest

    I'm glad to see that you were able to take some positive action regarding work and your career and made it more suited to your situation.

    Please keep posting and let us know how you are getting on and I am sure that others will connect with you to share their thoughts and experiences as well

    With very best wishes

    Peter

    Need more help? - call our Helpline on0800 5200 520Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm

  • Thank you so much for your advice I appreciate it.

  • MoWW
    MoWW Member Posts: 74

    Hello @saramidnite

    A few things to consider around work. Applying to Access to work for support or equipment. If you need travel support to get to and from work as public transport or driving is difficult, you can apply for taxi costs or a support worker to drive you. Equipment such as a standing stool may be of help to you. AtW can arrange for an independent supplier to carry out an assessment of your needs. Looking at your workplace and the support that may make your work life manageable.

    If you feel that you wish to move to another job check out Even break https://www.evenbreak.co.uk/en They offer advice and support to disabled jobseekers as well as list jobs. Also the specialist job search site https://www.careerswithdisabilities.com/

    Government website offers some good information too. Check out for Disability Confident employers. https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/disability-confident-campaign

    Good luck

    @MoWW