ESA what's going on?

Dolescum

I had my first reassessment early last year and only 3 or 4 months later they sent me the letter and forms for another reassessment! They never even told me if I had passed the first reassessment so I phoned up and they said I had passed but had no idea why I wasn't informed.

Is having another reassessment after 3-4 months normal? I thought the minimum was every 6 months.

So I filled out the assessment forms, sent them in and have been waiting to get my assessment appointment from them for 4 months now!

I'm still getting my benefits but what could possibly be taking them so long?

MrsManda

The length of time between assessments varies widely depending on a lot of factors - my 1st reassessment was after 6 months because my doctors suggested a six month recovery period.

As for waiting for a reassessment it could be that like with your previous reassessment they've awarded you ESA without informing you. Or they could be waiting for more information from your specialists. Or they're just experiencing a huge backlog.

The only way to find out is to call them or wait for them to contact you.

bluelight

Dolescum wrote: »

I had my first reassessment early last year and only 3 or 4 months later they sent me the letter and forms for another reassessment! They never even told me if I had passed the first reassessment so I phoned up and they said I had passed but had no idea why I wasn't informed.

Is having another reassessment after 3-4 months normal? I thought the minimum was every 6 months.

So I filled out the assessment forms, sent them in and have been waiting to get my assessment appointment from them for 4 months now!

I'm still getting my benefits but what could possibly be taking them so long?

Hi,

I'm on ESA due to a debilitating illness. I had an assessment done back in November 2011 and although DWP placed me in the Work-Related Activities Group and referred me to one of their "partners", the rate of ESA includes an element called Limited Capability for Work Supplement. This means that I am classed as borderline unable to work. In fact, there are periods when I am unable to do anything due to the illness. The periods when I am able to work, because of the effect my illness has on me, I am very limited in what I can do. With regard to the assessments, I think you will find that DWP take account of your illness and the six-monthly assessment cycle is only a rough guide. However, having said that, those who work for DWP are human and do make mistakes. My experience of DWP with my illness is that they have been very helpful and supportive.

rogerblack

MrsManda wrote: »

Or they're just experiencing a huge backlog.

It's been about 4 months since I sent off my ESA50, and it's still with ATOS, who are to decide on if I need a medical or not.

Sarah69

I don't see how Atos 'Doctors' can tell when yout fit to go back to work. I don't see either how they can assess you in 20mins, when you regularly visit your own doctor and or hospital consultant who know your medical history an Atos Doctor cant possibly know!

Muttleythefrog

Sarah69 wrote: »

I don't see how Atos 'Doctors' can tell when yout fit to go back to work. I don't see either how they can assess you in 20mins, when you regularly visit your own doctor and or hospital consultant who know your medical history an Atos Doctor cant possibly know!

They have a magical piece of software that's why!..lol...
here's the user guide. http://www.rightsnet.org.uk/?ACT=39&fid=3&aid=179_YGvh8oqzQoiEpJqKjbyE&board_id=1