Is multiple sclerosis a disability?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is most definitely a disability, but it’s unique in that symptoms vary between people. Some patients experience more debilitating effects than others, either progressively or through relapses, and a question often asked is ‘How disabled am I?’.

What defines a disability?

The UK government classifies a disability as something which impedes your ability to perform tasks that you would normally do, whether that be at work or home for example. This classification comes into effect if the disability a person has is considered ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’.

The UK government classifies a disability as something which impedes your ability to perform tasks that you would normally do, whether that be at work or home for example. This classification comes into effect if the disability a person has is considered ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’.

For a disability to be substantial it must make a large difference to your life – this can’t be just a minor inconvenience. Examples might include not being able to use a standard computer keyboard or operating a mouse effectively.

It must also affect you for more than 12 months, so a life-long condition like MS definitely comes under this.

MS is a protected characteristic

Under the 2010 equality act, multiple sclerosis is one of 3 disabilities that absolutely cannot be contested against when making reasonable adjustments. This means that employers must make as much effort as possible to accommodate MSers at work. This does make it easier in a way as there is no need for you to piece together government information when making your case, you’re automatically covered by law.

In addition to this, there is the Access to Work scheme which can help cover the costs of adjustments your workplace cannot. This helps to keep people with disabilities stay in paid employment, as things like taxi fares to and from work might prevent a person from earning a living.

Some MSers are less able than others

As mentioned earlier, the auto-immune disease can affect people differently and therefore how a disabled person would stereotypically look. There comes a sense of confusion around how ‘disabled’ a person is because of this preconception. It’s important to remember that not all disabilities are visible, and MS most definitely isn’t always on show.

From fatigue and brain fog, to uncontrollable emotion responses, less visible symptoms can of course cause a long term and substantial impact on a person – hence making a person disabled. There is no requirement to be in a wheelchair or scooter to be considered as such.

What you can use to help make life easier

There are a variety of schemes and benefits you can access to help live an easier life.

Benefit payments

MSers are entitled to receive a number of financial benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Universal Credit and Adult Disability Allowance (Scotland only) just like many others in similar positions. These are in place to help make your life easier whilst having MS.

There are also schemes that can help groups such as carers (carers allowance) financially to help people caring for MSers.

‘Just can’t wait’ card

This is a scheme issued by the Bladder and Bowel Community. These cards help people with bladder and bowel problems, including MSers, access a toilet in public where one may not always be available, such as retail shops. You can apply for one via their website and receive a physical or virtual one which is available on your phone.

Blue badge parking

As many people already know, holding a blue badge makes it easier for drivers to park their vehicle. Those who are applicable often have access to wider parking bays or ones nearer to the desired location, such as a supermarket entrance. You can also park on single or double yellow lines for up to 3 hours (as long as you’re not causing an obstruction).

Some individuals may be entitled automatically to one based on PIP benefits criteria, otherwise you’ll have to apply with your local authority if you haven’t already received one. You’ll require an assessment from a medical professional first before you can be issued a badge.

If you’d like to learn more about what help you can access both via benefits and in the workplace, then click the buttons below. We have plenty of information and our fantastic helpline team can give you more information too!