What Classifies As Disablement & How Does This Impact Your Work?

 With the amount of help available for disabled people, it can be difficult to work out just what counts as being disabled and whether you're entitled to any extra help. Whether you suffer from poor mental health, or are at the point of needing mobility scooters, the spectrum of what counts as disabled is an ever-blurry one, but we've looked into disability in the UK, and how it can affect your work.

What counts as being disabled?

Currently in the UK, there is no single definition of what it means to be disabled. In general, any physical or mental impairment that has a long term or substantial effect on you and your ability to carry out day-to-day activities will count as disablement. This could go from Depression and Anxiety, through partial deafness and blindness, all the way to being wheelchair bound or completely blind. Progressive conditions will also be counted, which is any condition or illness that will get worse over time, and in the case of HIV, cancer or multiple sclerosis, you will be counted as Disabled from the day that you are diagnosed. In general, different disabilities will effect different jobs in different ways, so some may receive more help than others in your particular profession, but it's important to speak to your manager or other person in charge to see what help you can get.

What help can I get at work?

No matter what your workplace is, they are under obligation to make adjustments to fit your disability to the best of their ability. In the UK, there is also the option of getting help from Access to Work. It's important to talk to your employer about the reasonable adjustments that they can make before you apply, however, as it may appear that your workplace can aid you to a reasonable and acceptable standard without the assistance. To get help from Access to Work, you must reach the eligibility requirements. You must have a disability or health condition, be 16 or over, and live in England, Scotland or Wales. You must have a paid job or be about to start one, whether that is a full time job, a part time job, self-employment, an apprenticeship, a work trial or an internship. Access to Work is a grant that can be given to you to help pay for items or services that you may need, whether that's equipment, translators, or transport.

What if I can't work?

The British Government offer help for disabled persons who can't work. Whether it's benefits, tax credits, payments, grants and concessions, there is financial help available. Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance are the main types of disability and sickness benefits, though in some cases you may be able to get Industrial Injuries Benefit if you're disabled as a result of work, or Constant Attendance Allowance if you find yourself in need of daily care and attention due to the disability.