DS (23) was diagnosed with ME 2 years ago. He's hoping to graduate this summer. University has been a struggle, but he was determined to get through and has been a part-time student since his diagnosis. We're very proud of him for getting through it. There have been lots of times when he's been so ill we've thought he'd have to stop.
He spends most of his time in his student flat. He has no strength to walk anywhere and is wiped out by the odd trips he does manage on buses or by taxi. He can work on his computer about half time, but not in any regular way as he doesn't know how well he will be from one day to the next. He has next to no social life outside the flat, but luckily has good supportive flatmates.
So next year it will all change. He desperately wants to work and feel he's doing something, and could manage something that is part time and online. He's already in receipt of PIP and we're now investigating whether he'll be eligible for universal credit. He has a lot of hospital appointments for an unrelated health condition and it makes sense for him to stay where he is and where his few friends are staying on next year. Where we live is very remote and he'd be totally isolated if he comes home. We've helped to support him financially through university but aren't in a position to keep this up indefinitely.
Has anyone else been in this position? Would he be likely to be awarded UC if he's able to get some part-time work? He has almost no savings now but did in the past (which have been used up through university). What do you have to show in terms of bank record to show your financial status? Or does UC just have access to see your bank account?
Any advice/experience really appreciated. Thank you.