In a mess - employment support allowance

wilmist

Thanks for replies.
Going to see doctor again as my stress levels are really high, alot going on in personel life at moment and trying to cope with the stress work is causing me as well. Already been on stress course etc.

I was suffering from stress before the benefits decision and with the pressure of their decision I am now finding everyday really stressful. I have been unable to cope with any pressure for a number of years now, I hope others with stress can understand as it is hard to explain to those who don't suffer from stress caused by pressure in the same way mine is.

To try and explain the pressure of having to be at work for a certain time, to be able to cope the same as those not suffering from stress, to try and hold down a job when you are not well, the pressure of having to cover rent + household bills etc and the pressure of my current personal life is all too much when you are already suffering from stress. Someone who wasn't would probably be able to cope but for someone already suffering from stress the added stress is too much.

With the benefits agency making their decision to remove support and I now know in twelve months I will loose all help + I will have to go to the job centre on top of the hours I am doing at work has added more stress that I am unable to cope with, hope people understand. The thought of having to appeal and meet a deadline for doing that etc brings even more stress.

I am worried sick I am going to loose the permitted work I am doing through the benefits decision even though it is meant to be there to help it has made my health alot worse. I have had to tell my work as I have been turning up stressed and cant concentrate and am making stupid mistakes.

Does anyone know what you should send in with your appeal, thanks in advance for any advice

Muttleythefrog

Your appeal can be made on a GL24 form or in writing. You'll need to state the details of the decision you wish to appeal against (the form guides you on that) and why it is wrong. But I think you've already received sound advice here... I would only appeal if you feel you can make a case.. a decent case that a support group descriptor applies... or several. There is a risk you could be found fit for work...i.e. fail the WCA.. i.e. not qualify for ESA. I would strongly advise trying to get supporting medical evidence that the descriptor applies to you. The DWP will reconsider their decision upon receipt of appeal request... f they don;t change their decision then they'll contact tribunals service to arrange appeal. All of this could take many months and perhaps even a year or more. If appealing isn't a good course of action then I think you have to look at your work situation.. what can be changed... is permitted work right for you etc. I think you also need to delve deeper with the help of medical professionals as to your problems... what is causing your depression and anxiety etc... what is it about the various aspects of life and work that are causing what you call stress. It's also worth remembering that you have qualified for ESA.. you passed the WCA and have been placed in the WRAG... you won't be forced to seek or take work in the WRAG.