Stress'd Help Suicidal Don't know What To Do

ESAHeadache

Just been told by my representative that he is not going to be coming on my appeal hearing itself. He advised me that the tribunal is straight forward and that they will ask me few question so there no real point of him being there as is a bog standard hearing.

What do people advise he has prepared all the evidence would it be advisable for me to take a friend?? im so confised help!!

Im sure a rep is supposed to come on a hearing with you is this correct?

sox8369

Its a shame that your representative cannot come - i would try and arrange a supportive friend or family member to go along with you.
Best of Luck x

ESAHeadache

Thanks for quick repsonse

Is a representative able to speak to the tribunal on your behalf on the hearing itself?

I suffer with anxiety and panic attacks and severe depression I think that on the day im surely not going to be able to commuicate properly and might have outbursts of emotions under such extreme pressure.

sox8369

I am not an expert on tribunals but i believe that they can speak - but understand it is best to advise the panel when you go in that you find it difficult to communicate under pressure and therefore would like your representative to speak on your behalf if you become stressed. It would be a perfectly resonable request to do this i would think.

I cannot see why they wouldnt allow this, as they would allow an official representative to talk - ie CAB, DIAL etc - I wish you well and try not to worry too much if possible x

bezzza

I had my tribunal a few weeks ago where I represented myself and I have to say it was a lot better than I thought it would be. The court clerk meets with you first to explain the procedure and who is on the panel - I was very worried as both the doctor and judge were both men but all they did was ask me questions about my condition and about the supporting information I had sent in a couple of weeks prior - I was a nervous wreck, was shaking so bad and my voice kept breaking but they were really understanding and gave their decision really quickly - in and out in less than 30 minutes. Just explain to the clerk so he can inform the panel and you should be fine. Good luck!

Edit: I was also told that even if I had been represented by CAB, etc the panel may still ask you direct questions.

ESAHeadache

Many Thanks people for you help

Im just so upset my rep is going to come because he's not going to get legal aid for representing and he feels it straight forward.
I don't want to be asked questions and be unable to answer them because of the way I react under pressure and anxiety.
Im so dreading that if I go and am unable to answer or something they are going to reject my appeal or put me in WRG.
I know that if I don't do well im just going to make myself unwell and have overdosed many time without realising due to severe stress and panic attacks

ESAHeadache

I Feel So Suicidal Right Now!!!!

muirbabe

Hi, I am sorry about your problems, I've not been through a tribunal so cant offer any specific advice Im afraid. I just wanted to let you know that people do care.
Would it help to talk to someone on the phone, maybe the Samaritans? to help get you through this.

Number is 08457 90 90 90.
'Calls from BT residential lines will be charged at up to 2 pence per minute and a call set-up fee of 7 pence applies.'

Best wishes,
Muirbabe

ESAHeadache

I duno 2 be honest right now I wish this nightmare would just end it been going on since jan 2010 it been very long to get my ESA sorted out

DX2

ESAHeadache wrote: »

Many Thanks people for you help

Im just so upset my rep is going to come because he's not going to get legal aid for representing and he feels it straight forward.
I don't want to be asked questions and be unable to answer them because of the way I react under pressure and anxiety.
Im so dreading that if I go and am unable to answer or something they are going to reject my appeal or put me in WRG.
I know that if I don't do well im just going to make myself unwell and have overdosed many time without realising due to severe stress and panic attacks

Why oh why are you getting someone to represent you that requires a fee? Did you try any other organisations, like the CAB?

ERICS_MUM

Dear ESAHeadache,

please please don't be so despairing, let us help you until we find a way to sort this out.

First of all how much does your rep expect to be paid for attending the tribunal with you ? Could the CAB provide a rep either free of charge or for a lot less ?

I used to work for MIND the mental health charity and we helped clients by acting as an advocate in such situations - by that I mean they could help you speak and explain yourself clearly. I don't know what your illness is but is it possible that a charity that supports it could help you in a similar way?

As a final resort is there anyone that you trust and know well that could go with you ? You probably just need a bit of confidence and someone there to hold your hand, listen to what the members of the tribunal ask and step in if you freeze or start crying etc. It is unlikely that you would need an expert with you as it sounds like a straightforward interview.

When is your tribunal and could you postpone it until you get this sorted ?

If I can help please PM me.

Linda xx