advice needed aboiut 1st work focused interview

geriann

what reason could i give to delay my 1st esa wrag work-focused interview?
it's on monday and due to my mental health i'm terrified of going!
i'm currently appealing being put in wrag and my gp will be sending a letter any day now to the jobcentre to say they should put me in the support group.
so i'm hoping to postpone the app' or if i can't postpone do the app' via phone instead.
any advice?

benefitbaby

Hi geriann,
You need to call and speak to your disability employment adviser (their contact info should be in the letter inviting you to attend) and explain that you are appealing the WRAG and if you are able to describe the difficulties you have, this will help them understand.

The DEAs have discretion to waive WFIs when they feel it is appropriate and during appeals to the SG this is often done.

If they will not waive the WFI then ask if you can do it over the phone or if they can visit you to do it (daft I know but they can do this). In addition if you can get GP or CPN letter explaining that attending WFIs would severely impact your mental health as well as sending it for your appeal a copy should go to your DEA.

If none of this works do you think you could manage to attend with the support of a friend or family member?

What you should avoid doing is 'nothing' as your work-related activity component can be reduced if you do not attend without showing good cause.

nannytone_2

do you meet any of the support group descriptors?

the wfi is nothing to worry about ... just an informal chat, and you would be able to take someone with you for support.

you can phone the job centre to ask if the appointment can be deferred, but it is upto your advisor wjether they agree to it or not.

PippaGirl_2

It would be better to go with a supporter even if you 'fell apart' while there than lose your benefits for not attending. I've known people with MH difficulties go to the WFI and when it is obvious to the advisor the difficulties they face have been told to go home and they won't be contacted for some months. Wishing you all the best x

ankspon

If you do fit the descriptors i would advise getting your local MP involved.