These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) are the common Questions that our advisers are asked when people come to see us.

Hopefully this will enable you to explore the opportunities of Stepping Stones and dismiss any fears you have before coming to see us.

Q1. How does registering with Stepping Stones affect my benefits?

A. It doesn't

Q2. How many hours can I work before it effects my benefits?

A. If working under Permitted Working rules you may be allowed to work up to 16 hours and earn up to £86. You can carry on getting Incapacity Benefit while doing permitted work without it affecting your benefit.

If you get Income Support,Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit your benefit will be reduced if your earnings are more than your earnings disregard.

Q3.What will I lose if I take up work?

A. A difficult question to answer really as every case is different but for certain you will not be worse off.

Q4.How much better off will I be in work?

A. Again this is a hard one to answer as you case will differ from another, what we would do is an In-Work Benefit Calculation for you.

Q5.Should I tell them in the interview about my illness?

A. It depends on the illness, but I can assure you that most employers are now sympathetic and aware and will offer support or make reasonable adjustments if neccessary.