Hi there,

Can anyone assist in giving any advise into how to best tackle the welfare system in the UK if you have this disease. I was advised to apply for Industrial Disability but I have had the form rejected on the grounds that I havent specified lead a component of my toxicity. At the moment I do not know it was the best fit for my condition code C1 which I think was nerological toxicity.

I am happy to share what I know about the substances i came in contact with but this is not exhaustive.

If anyone can help with this or the rather large DLA which has arrived on my doorstep, doesnt seem to address my needs at all.

I would be very grateful indeed.

Kind regards

Sarah

Hi Sarah,

I was on benefits for almost 10 years due to ME/CFS, MCS, and various other things.

I'm afraid I don't have any experience with Industrial Disability claims as I literally dropped out of uni aged 20 and applied for benefits then.

You're absolutely right that Disability Living Allowance (DLA) isn't at all tailored to people like us. The questions are all tailored to individuals who have limited mobility due to severe arthritis or injury for example. I attempted to get DLA twice with the diagnoses of ME/CFS, IBS, depression/axnxiety, and MCS....and got no where at all.

I ended up on Income Support with an added disability/illness component. I'd suggest this would be the one to go for in your case as well. There are plenty of spaces in the form to really explain how your illness affects your ability to function....even though the questions again are of the \"can you lift a bag of sugar with either hand?\" variety.

I would also suggest you go to your local Citizen's Advice Bureau and have them help you complete the form. They will know how to complete the forms to give you the best chance of a successful claim.

Good luck!

Thanks Maff,

I think luck is something I'm definately going to need to see me through this process. The CAB said i should fill out the DLA form so I will get some assistance from them.

Many thanks

Sarah

Hi Sarah,

I must say I'm a little surprised they are advising you go with the DLA but I guess being injured at work you stand a better chance of getting somewhere with it.

In any case, the CAB was instrumental in my successful benefits claim so I'm sure they will do a great job for you too.

Good luck and let us know how you get on.

Take care,

Maff