Are we entitled to benefits

[craigthornton]

I suspect the answer is no, but will ask anyway!

After my graft last December, I got very tired having to work a whole 8 hours at a desk as my left eye effectively did all the work.

This was just starting to improve, but following my re-graft and having no lens, things will be worse.

I would like not to work for a year until I can be fitted with a contact lens or have a lens implant.

My parents have some money they can give me, but it would not last very long.

Can such a condition qualify for benefits of any sort? I have never claimed in all my years of contributing and would like to get something back!

[Asif]

only one i can think of is job seekers allowance which is like £40 a week. other than that i think if you register partially sighted you could be entitled to something. i'm the same situation my vision in my graft eye now is not that great and i dont get consistant vision in the non grafted eye as i cant wear my lenses every day. i work where its not demanding on my vision as much. why dont you try working part time? or contact the rnib they will give you details of an authority that help improve your conditions at your place of work. i emailed them ages ago but cant remember the details of the people they gave me but the info was pretty decent

[craigthornton]

I have taken some steps to help myself. As an accountant I have enough knowledge to deal with small business.

I have set up my own business, on the quiet, and slowly building up clients. This means I can charge double what I get paid per hour at work and so effectively work half the hours for the same money.

The rate I charge is still a lot less than other accountants, so the clients I am getting are really pleased.

It just takes time for word of mouth, and discreet advertising to work!

[Karl R]

I have set up my own business, on the quiet, and slowly building up clients.

For a start you would have to give this up - as if you claimed Income Support, Incapacity Benefit, received Statutory Sick Pay, claimed/received Housing and Council tax benefit it would be classed as fraud.

There is nothing to stop you claiming Disability Living Allowance but there are no guarantees of being awarded it.