Anyone in the UK finished work through ill health?

[wen.uk]

Hi all

I'm 45 and have worked all my life, at the moment I am finding everything an uphill struggle.  My hours are 22.5 hours one week followed by 30 hours the next week and so on.  I'm getting to the point where all I do is go to work as I am too tired to do anything else, and if I do try to do other things I pay for it later.  Last week for example I tried a Pilates class which I really enjoyed on Friday evening, then went out to a party on saturday evening.  I eventually woke up at turned midday on Sunday and have felt exhausted since.  I've always said I will work for as long as I can but if things continue as they are think I've got a massive decision to make.

If I feel this way next week still, I think I'll take a couple of weeks off work to see if I feel any better as I honestly don't think I can keep on much longer.

Has anyone else given up work due to their illness - how do you apply for sickness benefit or DLA?  I am absolutely clueless about such things and the thought of leaving work with no money coming in is yet another worry.

I'd be grateful for any help or advice you can give me.

Thanks everyone - Wen x

[Dolly Dimples]

  Hi Wen, I suggest your first place to go is your Doctor.  Have you had a diagnosis of an illness or complaint recently?
     Usually it is those who have a permanent disability that go on benefits.. I do know that Sjogren sufferer's in England have a hard time convincing Doctor's that they are genuine sufferer's... but you must explain to the Doctor exactly what is happening to you, don't keep anything back and then ask about your working capabilities.. They should be able to point you as to the where and how of it all... Good Luck Dolly.     PS sorry Wen, but I have just beeen catching up on the site, and noticed that you do indeed have the Sjogrens Syndrome,  this means that you have got medical records to start off with.. Go for it,   Dolly