Work and asthma

8) If you have to think about giving up work

A young adult woman looking stressed

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If it is not possible for you to continue working because of your asthma this can be devastating. Discuss your health with your GP first. Give yourself time to think about all your options before you decide. Get as much information as you can before you make a decision.

  • Would your employer offer voluntary redundancy?
  • Would your employer offer early retirement? This could affect your pension.
  • What income would you be entitled to if you apply for state benefits? You would need to seek individual help to find this out as it depends on your personal circumstances. The benefits system is not only very complex but it is also being reviewed by the government and is likely to change. Some benefits depend on the amount of national insurance contributions you have made and others are means tested (i.e. on your assets). If you have other income or savings this can also affect your entitlement to state benefits. You can get more information from Citizens Advice Bureau – Benefits for people who are sick or disabled or the Department of work and pensions website.

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