Employment

There is no reason why you shouldn’t work, as it creates independence and opportunity to meet new people. And there is nothing that you can’t do, unless you really have a hankering to be a ballet dancer or a Premier League football player – then you might have a problem. But don’t discount sport completely – we have a member who was a member of the 2012 Paralympic team in London! Aim high and reach for the stars…you can do it!

Most people with CMT manage their jobs by having a good relationship with their manager who will be willing to make minor adaptations to suit their needs. However, some people aren’t aware that there is a legal obligation for the employer to make reasonable adjustments to the workplace and work task to ensure a disabled person is able to do their job.

The Equalities Act aims to ensure that you cannot be discriminated against during recruitment, employment, promotion and dismissal procedures. You can find out more at  www.equalityhumanrights.com.

Find loads of information and other useful links here, at the NHS website.

DEA

The Disability Employment Advisor (DEA) at you local Job Centre Plus can give advice on retaining a job, help with practical support and refer you to Work Choice / other job related schemes.(www.Gov.uk)

The DEA is accessible if you are on benefits or working.

You can also find information about benefits that you may be entitled to, like Employment and Support Allowance or Personal Independence Payments (Disability Living Allowance if you’re under 16) at https://www.gov.uk/browse/disabilities/benefits.