Too ill to Work

If you are ill (and covered by a doctor’s note) as well as possibly being able to claim Income Support (see above) you may also, or instead of, qualify for Statutory Sick Pay or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

If you are employed, earning over £97 (on average) a week, you should qualify for Statutory Sick Pay for up to 28 weeks.

People who are in school for 21 hours a week (except some disabled people) are excluded from claiming Employment and Support Allowance. But if you have left education or attend for fewer hours and you have been incapable of work for 28 weeks, and you are allowed to claim benefits by immigration and residence rules, you may be able to claim. More information at www.direct.gov.uk