Refusing to claim benefits

I am a mum to a 39 year old autistic boy. My son suffers awful social anxiety and hardly leaves the house. He was diagnosed with autism last year. He has been unsuccessful in the workplace and is not working at present. He refuses to claim benefits and so relies on his Mum and Dad looking after him.

Does anyone else have this problem with their adult child?

Many thanks xxx

Parents
  • Hello, I have the same situation too with my son who is soon to be 37. He was diagnosed when he was 13 ( plus ADHD ) but had lots of problems in education and socially.  It is a huge worry and it’s really hard knowing what to do or how to help. I am hoping to be able to persuade him to go to a charity to get independent advice regarding benefits as I think if someone else advises him rather than mum or dad, he might possibly listen. I am also contemplating the services of a life coach if he is open to that, but so far hasn’t been. I do totally understand your worries and wish I could suggest something to help but I am at a loss too. Maybe others here could offer possible suggestions for us both to explore. 

Reply
  • Hello, I have the same situation too with my son who is soon to be 37. He was diagnosed when he was 13 ( plus ADHD ) but had lots of problems in education and socially.  It is a huge worry and it’s really hard knowing what to do or how to help. I am hoping to be able to persuade him to go to a charity to get independent advice regarding benefits as I think if someone else advises him rather than mum or dad, he might possibly listen. I am also contemplating the services of a life coach if he is open to that, but so far hasn’t been. I do totally understand your worries and wish I could suggest something to help but I am at a loss too. Maybe others here could offer possible suggestions for us both to explore. 

Children
  • Thank you so much for your reply. Sometimes it’s just good to know that it’s not just you going through this. It’s so hard isn’t it? We are both now in our late 60s and do worry what the future will be for our son after we have gone. Sending lots of love to you and your family xxx