Is hay fever a disability?
Under the Equality Act 2010, seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is specifically not counted as a disability on its own. It can be taken into account if it makes another condition, such as asthma, worse.
At work
Even so, many employers are happy to help. You could ask about:
- working away from open windows, or in a room with air filtering
- working indoors on high pollen days if your job is usually outside
- flexible hours to avoid travelling at peak pollen times
Allergies caused by work
Some people develop a runny nose or asthma because of things at work, such as flour, wood dust, animals or chemicals. This is not hay fever. It is called occupational rhinitis or occupational asthma. Tell your employer and GP. Read more about asthma and work.
Benefits
Hay fever does not qualify for disability benefits such as PIP. If you also have asthma or another condition that affects your daily life, the help you can get depends on that condition.
Medicines
Most hay fever medicines can be bought cheaply from a pharmacy or supermarket. Prescriptions are free in Wales.
Sources we used
- GOV.UK, Definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010
- The Equality Act 2010 (Disability) Regulations 2010
- HSE, Occupational asthma and rhinitis
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