Esa Wrag & Work Focused Interviews

RoryQ

Hello - I am hoping for some advice here.

Some background. I was migrated over from IB to ESA in December last year, I didn't have a medical. I have BiPolar, chronic lower back and muscular shoulder/neck issues which means reduced mobility. I am unable to have relaxant meds for the back/neck problems as they contraindicate with the BiPolar meds.

I had 2 initial Work Focused Interviews where it was agreed that I wasn't well enough for the Work Programme but would continue with the Work Focused Interviews at the job centre.

After a 3 month break due to a depressive episode and more meds, I saw the advisor again last week. On every occasion I have seen him he has been pressing for me to go on a specific course. This course involves rebuilding hedgerows and walls etc that is beyond my physical capabilites and when I told him this things took a downward spiral. He said that he had had back problems himself but that walking had cured it and that he didn't understand BiPolar but thought that some fresh air would do me good.

When I pointed out that it was my understanding that these courses were voluntary he reluctantly admitted they were but said I had been on the ESA benefit for 5 months now and that he could start applying sanctions. He told me to think about things and he would see me in 6 weeks.He also said he could pull me in for interview anytime he wanted and the WFI's weren't limited to 6. My ESA re-assessment date is October 2013.

I am feeling bullied, anxious and stressed which is not doing my health any good. I have had to have my medication increased/adjusted twice since. So my questions are

1. Am I right in thinking that these courses are voluntary?
2. Can they send me on any course they like, even though it would have a detrimental effect on my health?
3. Can I complain to his Manager and request another advisor?

Many thanks for any help.

Muttleythefrog

Fresh air might do you some good for a condition he doesn't understand.... dear me... that is shocking. I must say there are others who should be well situated to answer your first two questions. The third question - I strongly advise you do... he has attempted to provide medical advice and he has made threats when he's meant to be helping you.. he is obviously completely unsuitable for his role.

Stephen_Leak

Fresh air for bipolar. Words fail me. I would have thought all this made him eminently suitable for his role. Or ATOS.

RoryQ

Thankyou Mutley & Stephen . .. he sent me a leaflet from the Depression Alliance after this interview, which again highlights his ignorance - and on the very first page it says

Don't let anyone pressure you into going back to work - things must be done in your own time .. .

Sheesh . .

wouldbeqaulitymoneysaver

Take Auntie Wouldbe's Advice. I belong to Benefits and Work and the task for all of us is we need to know as much as possible about the System which is unfair, complex, unjust, badly thought out and know how to keep our benefits until job comes round if right.
None of us can afford not to become an expert because there is a lot of enemies out there, Benefits Bashers being one danger..
Get CAB Adviser, Knowledge.

moose1982

Sounds like he excelled at his diversity course...