Receiving a diagnosis of Parkinson’s does not mean you have to stop doing the things you enjoy; this includes going to work. You may need to consider how your symptoms could impact your ability to carry out your roles in work. Parkinson’s affects everyone differently, but many people continue working long after a diagnosis. Your employer has a duty by law to make reasonable adjustments and accommodate changes in your needs and will usually work with you to achieve this.

Listed below are some tips for working with Parkinson’s disease.

• Honest and transparent communication with employers and colleagues can help reduce fears and anxiety you may have about your how your condition may affect you at work.
• Consider what reasonable adjustments could look like in your workplace and how they may support you to remain productive. Think about pacing your work activities to allow for rest periods in the form of less strenuous tasks. Adjustments may include:
  • Changing or allowing flexibility in working hours
  • Adaptations to equipment
  • Altering job role
  • Building adaptations
• Are there any adaptations that could be made to your work environment or software that could make it easier to manage your symptoms in work? For example, large button telephones or adjustable chairs. If your needs are not met by your employer making reasonable adjustments, then an Access to Work grant may be an option.

Keeping working when you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s can be a good way to keep active both physically and mentally and to maintain social connection, depending on your job. You should not feel that you must stop working just because you have received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s.

If you decide that you need to reduce your working hours or leave employment, it can be difficult to cope financially. However, you may be entitled to claim financial support.

• You’re entitled to Statutory Sick Pay from your employer if you have a job but cannot work because of your illness.
• You may be entitled to Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if you do not have a job and cannot work because of your illness.
• You may be eligible for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which replaced the Disability Living Allowance (DLA), if you’re aged 64 and under and need help with personal care or have walking difficulties.
• You may be able to get Attendance Allowance if you’re aged 65 or over.
• You may be eligible for other benefits if you have children living at home or if you have a low household income.

Parkinson’s UK has further information about working with Parkinson’s or stopping work because of Parkinson’s on their website. Work and Parkinson’s | Parkinson’s UK

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