Coping with not working

Welcome and introductions
1

Hi Everyone
I’m new to this forum & I was diagnosed
with RRMS in 2019 back then I totally
Blanked out what I was told and never accepted it at all , just went back to work and carried on as I was doing after a year of my diagnosis I was beginning to feel the affects of MS
on my body .I have kept on working
up until this week my firm was making people redundant but first they asked for volunteers and I volunteered as my job title was warehouse supervisor which involved a lot of walking
and because my MS was taking a grip
on my Mobilty (my left leg did not operate as normal) and I was starting to use a walking stick and found it hard to get about.
I still feel I have a lot to offer as I have over 30 years experience in a warehouse environment as Manager/supervisor
But it would now mean working from home or desk
I still want to keep on working so if anyone knows anyone who has any opportunities please let me know
Iam 60 years old & have always worked
It is hard Iam now unemployed
It is now starting to sink in (the diagnosis)
If anyone has any questions
Just Ask
Thanksk
Robert

3

Hi JP
Thanks for your insight of your own experience
Could you help with some advice regarding what to do after stopping work, claiming benefits etc
It would be much appreciated
Robert

5

Hi Robert,

Maybe try Citizens Advice and take a notepad. Get them to map out exactly each step and stage to do next maybe? It’s confusing as hell.

There’s also a MS Helpline 08088008000.

I (stupidly) never used either and to be honest still don’t understand it, spent longer freaking myself out trying to self learn and went round in circles.

Cheers,
Andrew

6

Thanks Andrew
Appreciated

1 Like
7

Thanks Appreciated

8

Work and I parted company a long time ago - as a result of a voluntary severance package including pension enhancement so in my case I wasn’t too worried about finances. Agree with @muchthesamemuchness and @andy_traill about contacting Citizens Advice and the MS Society helpline. I haven’t used them but the helpline could be very useful in terms of benefits etc and explaining your ‘rights’ when in employment. I’m not up to date but MS is a registered disability and as such employers should make reasonable adjustments to enable you to work. I know nothing about your area of work but with your many years of experience employers might well be happy to have you on board and make allowances for your MS .

On non financial matters, I didn’t really miss work and just found other things and interests to fill my time

9

Thanks for your insight
Appreciated
Robert