Employment Support Allowance

Sharon30

Looking for some advice as I'm getting confused. I have suffered from mental illness on and off for the past 5 years. At times I have been signed off work when things become really bad. In september last year I became very unwell and have been signed off sick since. My ssp ran out in March and was sent a form to claim ESP. Was receiving contribution based ESA at £64.30 per week but after going for my ATOS medical they decided I didn't score enough points. I remember at the medical the man saying I was very determined. I had hoped to be back at work by now but looking as if I'll be paid off as I know I'd be unable to return at the moment and my CPN says I'm nowhere near ready to go back. The advisor at the job centre told me to write a letter to appeal but am I write in saying that to do this and wait for a decission I'll get nothing??

My husband is self employed but at the moment like everyone else is very quiet and not bringing in a lot of money. We have 2 kids and get CTC and WTC but that's all. The benefits system is like a maze and as we've always been employed it seems there isn't much help. I am very unwell at the moment and feel as though I can't cope with all this, I am very aware of the effects my illness has on my family and the pressure my husband feels having to try and find money to provide for his family. My illness hopefully won't be long term I just need to get back on my feet.

Thanks

healy

If you appeal the decision you will receive the assessment phase rate of contribution based ESA.

Sharon30

Thanks healy the man at the job centre wasn't very helpful!!!

cit_k

i believe you only have one month to appeal (from the date of the decision), if you have past that time limit you would probably have to put in a new claim (if your condition had worsened...) best to speak to a welfare rights advisor face to face, dont rely on advice from the jobcenter, its pot luck if you get someone helpful, or even accurate...

Sharon30

Thanks I only found out last week that my payments had stopped. I have started writing my letter which is VERY long as I was told to include as much detail as possible. I feel as if I'm begging!!! I'll get it posted tomorrow the sooner the better!!!