Hi, I am currently struggling with a serious illness and have been for 6 months. Upto now I have done my best to continue my PhD alongside it but I can no longer cope. I am at the end of my second year and don't want to quit with only a year left but I can't afford to interrupt. The relationship with my supervisor had broken down and he is no support. The university has told me to put up or leave. What can I do?

Sorry to hear that you are having such a tough time and that you are not getting the support you need from your supervisor. Have you asked for help from other people at the Uni (student counsellor, postgraduate team, chaplain, head of research degrees committee?)? It sounds like you really need some time out to rest and recover from your illness and I'm sure that somehow this can be a viable option despite your concerns re finances. Take care and good luck for the future.

What illness do you have?

I agree with Ann - is there anyone else in your Uni who can advise? Student Union? Or, your uni should have a complaints procedure, which may suggest where you can go to discuss things (I'm not saying make a complaint, but this might point you in the direction of someone who can advise). If intercalating is not an option, would going part time work? There may be benefits you could get if you intercalate - I'm not sure about this, but if no-one in your Uni can help, your local citizens advice bureau may be worth a go.

O.K. , here's some things that you can do. 1) Realise that you have rights and cannot be penalised for an illness. 2) Realise that the treatment you describe comes under bullying and harassment and can be formally complained about (even to the police if necessary). 3) GEt medical evidence. 4) Stay calm, but stand up for yourself. 5) If in doubt consult a lawyer.

If you are funded by a research council, they will have procedures to deal with this situation, and should be able to help you. Many PhD students do not get on with their supervisors at times. The best thing to do is learn from it and move on. Making a formal complaint may do you more harm in the long run, academia is a small world and if you get a reputation as a troublemaker or difficult to work with you may find it hard to get a job in future.