UK houses of Parliament debates IBD!

[bushydougie]

Not sure if people have seen this or are aware of it but there was a discussion last week in Parliament about IBD in regards to the latest debate over welfare reforms especially for the young. Some MPs actually seemed to know something about our struggles. More awareness always welcomed!
Here's the link:
http://www.theyworkforyou.com/whall/?id=2012-01-31a.249.0#g251.3

 

[Artificial]

cool, thanks for sharing x

 

[DustyKat]

Thanks for posting! I will be sending a copy of this to a number of our MP's. :thumleft:

Dusty. xxx

 

[bushydougie]

I'm sorry to hear what you have been through littlemiss.
I was off work for 9 months when I first became ill and was on benefits for the final couple of months. I know how lucky I am that I still have a job but I do worry about the future and am well aware that there are so many people out there who have suffered in similar ways to yourself.
Let's hope that this awareness is just the start of a new way of dealing with people with chronic but fluctuating conditions.
I was always told that I should fill forms in citing my worst day and symptoms. Have you been in touch with Crohn's and Colitis UK? They have a wealth of information about benefits and how best to apply.
Sam

 

[DustyKat]

anda:anda:anda:anda:anda:anda:

I have just been spending some time on my favourite pastime! Sending emails to politicians! YAY!

So happy you posted this Sam. I have sent a lovely lengthy email with the link included to...

The Prime Minister, the Premier, the Federal Health Minister, the State Health Minister and all the respective Shadow Ministers plus my State and Federal Members.

Dusty.

 

[littlemissh]

Oh poor things, they better be shaking in their boots now that Dusty is on their case!!

 

[xX_LittleMissValentine_Xx]

wow, Good one Dusty!
I saw this last week I think. Good to know it is being recognised. I cant help but feel like it wouldn't make that much difference in the work place. But at least if we know it is getting some recognition, and if we did have any trouble it could make things easier to get help?

 

[StarGirrrrl]

Well the Government don't want any more on benefits (and are looking to cut millions off who already get them), so they should be doing everything in their power to keep IBD sufferers in work!

 

[bushydougie]

Wow Dusty! You'll have to let us know if you get any replies (unless they're automated!)
Stargirrrrl - let's hope so. I've managed to go back to work 4 days a week but couldn't possibly work 5 days. It's tough managing on less money but know others have much worse.
The benefit system does need to take into account the variety of problems that individuals have to manage rather than trying to fit people into such narrow boxes!