Failed IB. Failed ESA. Now what?

coin_operated_girl

camelot1971 wrote: »

Just wanted to clarify - i wasnt saying people with disability cant go on holiday but plenty of people with disability work. Theres plenty of people with mental health issues work, and talking to those people who i work with who have mental health problems, being in work is a lifesaver for them.

I suppose my last thought is some people are quick to say what they cant do and refuse to look at what they can do.

I understand what you are saying, and i can definitely see why working would be beneficial to those with mental health issues, but i dont have mental health issues. My body physically can not cope with work (or anything else remotely tiring such as going out for a meal).

And i appreciate you don't know this as you obviously don't know me, but im not work shy. I have worked since the age of 13 until i got ill at around 21, so not working isn't something that comes naturally to me. I periodically try out voluntary work in case i find out i and capable of working. For about 8 months i volunteered in a charity shop 10 hours a week. Then my condition got worse and last time i tried any voluntary work a few months ago i couldnt even mange 6 hours a week. But you're right, some people are too quick to say what they cant do and its very easy to fall into that trap when you have been out of work for a while.

rogerblack

cit_k wrote: »

Do you have a link to the legislation re the fit note not being a requirement during appeal? Normally they stop benefit payment if the fit note is not sent in.

http://www.rightsnet.org.uk/forums/viewthread/840/
http://www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/dmgch42.pdf - 42097

42097 Evidence other than on an approved form or from a registered medical practitioner can be accepted if
1. it is unreasonable to require a doctor's statement and
2. the evidence shows that the claimant is unfit for work because of a disease or disablement.

In most cases, it's going to be hard to convince them that it's unreasonable to require, but it's not an absolute requirement.