ESA/Clinic transport

Sarah69

Hi, I'm wondering if anyone can help me. I have an appointment tomorrow afternoon for pain management. I am unable to travel by bus to get to the appointment due to my pain. I had arranged through a local company (they have volunteer drivers) to take me. They have just rung to say they have no drivers tomorrow! I have now had to book a taxi which is going to cost around £15 each way. Can I claim this money back anywhere as £30 out of my ESA is a lot? Thanx in advance.

[Deleted User]

speak to the hospital

tanith

Ask the hospital reception to direct you the PALS office they might give you some information to help..

MrsManda

You will need to speak to the hospital. If you are claiming ESA income related you are automatically entitled to all your health travel costs. But it's normally restricted to public transport cost or petrol for a private car.
Other forms of transport can be paid for but you need to agree that with the hospital.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/BenefitsTaxCreditsAndOtherSupport/Illorinjured/DG_10018959

KxMx

Have you tried the official Hospital transport service? It is a bit short notice though to arrange something.

Sarah69

Yes I've tried hospital transport and I didn't pass their criteria so they gave me the number for the volunteer transport who have let me down! Should I say something to the clinic when I get there tomorrow regarding cost?

I know it's short notice but I had this all arranged 2weeks ago and I need to get to this appointment otherwise I could be waiting 6months+ for another! Thats why I had to book a taxi which I really can't afford.

tanith

Thats a difficulty with a volunteer service they only have as many drivers as want to work on certain days and some days there just aren't enough . If you get to your app tomorrow try asking at the clinic or the doctor if they would book you transport. Any hospital transport patient has to be authorised by the doctor anyway so they may have just fobbed you off. Its worth asking..

Sarah69

Thank you I'll try that. I was never warned by the volunteer service that there may not be the transport on the day otherwise I wouldn't have arranged it! I would have tried to find some other means.