Working
People with AS are capable of doing a wide variety of jobs and many people pursue very successful careers.
People who work – both in physical jobs and in offices – may develop some difficulties over time due to their AS symptoms. Therefore getting your AS effectively controlled may help your work life become easier.
If you are working, you should talk to your manager, colleagues or occupational health about what you may need or is available to help you.
You can get advice about work from Disability Employment Advisers or Employment Medical Advisory Service from your local Jobcentre or Jobcentre Plus office.
Disability Employment Advisers
Difficulties with work are recognised by the Department for Work and Pensions. If you need extra employment support because of a disability, your local Jobcentre can put you in touch with one of their Disability Employment Advisers who can provide work assessment and retraining.
Disability Employment Advisers can give you help and support regardless of your situation. They can help you find work or gain new skills even if you have been out of work for a long time, or if you have little or no work experience. They can also provide equipment which is needed to make it easier for you to do your job.
Employment Medical Advisory Service
Employment Medical Advisory Service staff provide expert independent and consistent advise to a wide range of people and organisations, such as investigating complaints and concerns regarding ill health raised by employers, employees, trade unions, members of the public and other healthcare professionals.