Leaving work to look after wife with terminal cancer

Hi, need some advice please... I have been off work since July as my wife has been ill, this turned into us finding out she has terminally cancer so i have been caring for her full-time along with my 2 young sons. Work have been good and up until this month i have been paid in full. I have now used up all my company sick pay so will know be getting SSP. Now my question is if i have to leave to become a full time carer what is the best way to do it? i am worried that if i hand in my notice it will effect me claiming benefits. Or do i need to stay off sick until they dismiss me on capability.

Thanks in advance

  •  

    Hi Andy,

    What a horrible predicament you find yourself in. what ages are your boys?  There are certain benefits that you should be entitled to which might help. Macmillan are good at offering advice on money matters, as is your local Citizens' Advice Bureau. Why not ask some of your wife's care team? There is usually a place in hospital where you can get advice about this.

    Each case is based on it's  individual merits, so you really need to talk to someone with experience in this field. I may be wrong, but I think that I have heard before that, if you hand in your notice, then you don't qualify for benefits.

    Please let us know how you get on. We are always here for you whenever you feel like talking.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine

  • Hi Andy76,

    I'm sorry to hear about your wife, this must be a very difficult time for you.

    Adding to the advice Jolamine has given you, I'd like to share this info we found on the Macmillan website, to read more please click here.

    I hope this can be of some help.

    Best wishes,

    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator

     

     

     

  • Hi,

    If your wife has been diagnosed as terminal, she is automatically entitled to PIP under the special rules. You should apply immediately and it will be fast tracked. She will not need an assessment. She might also be entitled to ESA or Universal Credit and you might be entitled to Carers Allowance.

    gov.uk will give you all the relevant info and I think you apply online.

     

    Best Regards

    Taff