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Some people with arthritis don’t feel able to work, or are advised not to by their doctor. If this is the case for you, there is support available.
Leaving work
If you plan to leave work because of your arthritis, consider whether your employer has made every effort to help keep you in employment. It is usually more cost-effective for your employer to keep you rather than recruit somebody else. If your employer can’t make adjustments to help you continue in your job, they should try to offer you another role if possible.
Disability advice specialists in Jobcentre Plus (JobCentres/Jobs and Benefit Offices in Northern Ireland) are there to help employers adapt, as well as to support disabled people. So before you decide to give up work, see if they can help. The Arthritis Care helpline and local Citizens Advice Bureau can also offer advice.
If you are no longer able to do your job for health reasons you may be entitled to receive early payment of your pension. The details depend on your pension scheme, but your doctor will need to agree that this is right or you.
Benefits and work
Incapacity Benefit (to be renamed as Employment and Support Allowance for new claimants from October 2008) could give you an income if you cannot work because of your arthritis. You may be entitled to Incapacity Benefit if: your employer stops paying you; you are self-employed; or you are looking for work.
If you are claiming disability benefits because of your arthritis, you may do a limited amount of ‘permitted work’ within reason. You must tell your local benefits office or Jobcentre when you start permitted work. Any earnings from permitted work may affect your benefits.
Alternatives to work
Retraining, further education and voluntary work all offer opportunities to develop your skills and keep active. They often offer more flexibility than paid employment, allowing you to change your hours and take time off if you need to. You should discuss any training or volunteering plans with your local Jobcentre or equivalent, as this may affect your benefits.
