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Help with Disability Benefits - Negative Working Environment

Reflexions2

Hi all,

I am female and about to turn 56, have aspects of autism & dyspraxia (results from a psychoanalytic test which was male orientated). I have been working in a secondary school for 12 years and for most of that time felt a real sense of camaraderie and satisfaction due to my SENCo (head of special needs department). Unfortunately she retired about 5 years ago and my time at work has slowly deteriorated to the point where I no longer feel I can contribute anything of any value.

My work life has become increasingly difficult due to younger members of staff joining the team, rules changing (or new rules being added without this being passed on) and the school not supporting me or providing the flexibility I require, especially as they are aware of my conditions.

Recently, I have had some disagreements with other members of staff who feel it is acceptable to help themselves to my resources, such as coffee, milk, sugar, etc., which I consider to be theft. However, the head of the HR department deemed this behaviour to be entirely acceptable. When I disagreed with her about this matter, I was seen to be the aggressor and was required to apologise. Following this I was forced to sit through a character assassination, conducted by head of HR and the members of staff who stole my possessions. This entire meeting was formed of lies and insults and gave me no opportunity to fight my corner.

There are many more examples like the above, where I am left hurt and unsupported, this includes receiving no assistance from my current SENCo and Headmaster. This just happens to be the most recent situation and the straw that has broken the camel’s back.

I feel the current state of affairs has become intolerable, which has reduced my trust in all other people and stopped me from wanting to leave the house. I’m uncomfortable starting a new job as it takes me a long time to pick up the ropes and to understand new environments/structures of work. As a result I am looking into other alternatives to working, such as disability benefits.

From the research I have conducted, I see I can apply for PIPs and ESA but I was wondering if there is anything else out there or any further advice that can be offered.

Thanks so much!

Parents

  • Hi,

    Being taken advantage of & mistreated at work seems to be a common experience for those with autism. I feel broken & beyond repair from my past work experiences too.

    You may need to contact Citizens Advice.

    ESA for 'work related activity group' has gone down to the same money as Jobseekers allowance. But ESA 'support group' money is still at the higher rate. I was first put in the WRAG but it soon became obvious I couldn't cope with attending the jobcentre.

    ESA is said to be easier to get than PIP. But having someone explain your rights could be essential.

    I haven't had much luck with PIP. I'm still trying to appeal. Technically you should be able to keep applying for it, even if you've been turned down.

    Benefits such as housing benefit & council tax reduction are usually based on what benefits you get.

    Some electricity companies also do the warm home discount. But again it depends on what benefits you get.

Reply

  • Hi,

    Being taken advantage of & mistreated at work seems to be a common experience for those with autism. I feel broken & beyond repair from my past work experiences too.

    You may need to contact Citizens Advice.

    ESA for 'work related activity group' has gone down to the same money as Jobseekers allowance. But ESA 'support group' money is still at the higher rate. I was first put in the WRAG but it soon became obvious I couldn't cope with attending the jobcentre.

    ESA is said to be easier to get than PIP. But having someone explain your rights could be essential.

    I haven't had much luck with PIP. I'm still trying to appeal. Technically you should be able to keep applying for it, even if you've been turned down.

    Benefits such as housing benefit & council tax reduction are usually based on what benefits you get.

    Some electricity companies also do the warm home discount. But again it depends on what benefits you get.

Children
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