How do you work full time with a SEN child?

[Howisitthat]

Major generalisation there about SEN but for my own DC, with moderate SEN I’d say, it’s a minefield.

I only work 18 hours a week and I struggle with that. Often have to take time off for appointments etc. He cannot cope with FT nursery either. He’s only 3.

I’m wondering what the future will hold. Do I just go along with pin money jobs forever? I worry. For my future as well as his. I’m only 23. I don’t have any sort of pension built up

H works FT, good salary. But it only pays the bills; as if often the case with a decent wage, above national average but not by thousands. We need my PT wage to have any sort of life.

But we don’t have any substantial savings. No real hope for the future prospect wise. I often worry about what I’m going to do. I feel as if my life is done for now, and I have to be content with what I have.

Is anyone else in a similar boat or do you have advice?

I don't work at all. I physically can't make it work. I sort of figure as they age they will gradually get more independent.

I had to actually hand my notice in on Mon. My DD isn't currently attending school due to such horrendous anxiety (ASD,) and although at home with DH (as he works from home,) she is so attached to me that she has been just as anxious about me going to work, and mornings and night times have been torture for us all.

I've just applied for DLA (which I'm worried we won't get) and I'm going to take a few months to try slowly build her back up.

Hugs

@Mumofsend
I never worked full time after my autistic child was born. When he went to school I worked (in a school) for 15 hours a week. I reduced this to 11 hours at one point as he was really struggling at school and mornings were just a nightmare. Once my earnings had gone below a certain threshold I was able to claim Carers Allowance as we got DLA for DS, which helped a bit.

Even as he got older having a fulltime job was out of the question as there were always things to sort out.

It's not easy, but you could investigate whether you can get DLA for your DS, and possibly Carers' Allowance.

@pandyandy1

Have you seen the advice here?:
www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/disability-living-allowance/help-with-your-dla-claim/help-with-dla-form/

Thanks Ellie56, that's very kind.

I'll keep you posted as to whether DD is awarded. X

Hi

Just updating that DD was awarded middle rate care.

I was so happy I nearly cried, as now I have finished work, I'll probably do nothing but worry about finances.

The man on the phone gave me the number to apply for carers also.

Great news @pandyandy1.