Saying NO to ESA

James123_2

My wife is on IB following a heart-attack and unresolved angina problems. She receives DLA for this. She has also more recently been diagnosed with cancer - treatment now complete. She has received the dreaded brown envelope for migration to ESA. Following chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery she doesn't want to go through the hoops of migrating to ESA. This is her decision. She feels that the stress of such will only make her angina worse. Basically, she's had enough. Stress is a trigger for her angina. So, this is a strange question but how does she go about refusing the ESA process without DWP thinking she is in some way fit to work. It occurred to her that her DLA award might be looked at as a result with yet further stress. My thought was to explain the reasons to the DWP. I'm not going to attempt to persuade her otherwise. I'm only interested in keeping her well. She doesn't want to be prodded about any more!

Torry_Quine

James123 wrote: »

My wife is on IB following a heart-attack and unresolved angina problems. She receives DLA for this. She has also more recently been diagnosed with cancer - treatment now complete. She has received the dreaded brown envelope for migration to ESA. Following chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery she doesn't want to go through the hoops of migrating to ESA. This is her decision. She feels that the stress of such will only make her angina worse. Basically, she's had enough. Stress is a trigger for her angina. So, this is a strange question but how does she go about refusing the ESA process without DWP thinking she is in some way fit to work. It occurred to her that her DLA award might be looked at as a result with yet further stress. My thought was to explain the reasons to the DWP. I'm not going to attempt to persuade her otherwise. I'm only interested in keeping her well. She doesn't want to be prodded about any more!

If the form isn't sent in by the date requested then the claim will end and no further IB will be payable.

However if I remember correctly people getting chemotherapy go into the support group of ESA and so other than the form and information confirming this nothing else shoud be needed.

James123_2

Thanks. Chemotherapy has recently finished. So there's no automatic entitlement here.
I don't blame her at all. I've only just gone through cancer treatment myself. After this, some things no longer seem so important.

rogerblack

James123 wrote: »

Thanks. Chemotherapy has recently finished. So there's no automatic entitlement here.
I don't blame her at all. I've only just gone through cancer treatment myself. After this, some things no longer seem so important.

Recovery from chemotherapy also qualifies.

If you feel up to it - and she is willing - you can be made an appointee for her, and do it on her behalf.
She may be required to attend an interview, but this is not certain - a number of people are placed on ESA without one.

James123_2

Thanks. I did see the clause about recovering from chemotherapy. As far as I can see there is no timescale published for how long this might be considered. Many patients can be permanently affected by such. However, I think she's heard too much about ATOS to take it further. Only the support group would be appropriate in her condition and this is just too much of a long-shot.
I suppose the short version of my question would be whether declining the ESA process might trigger a review of her DLA.

bloolagoon

I am currently undergoing IV chemo - secondary following last years chemo, but fit and well otherwise. Still working, still doing what I can.

Life is too short to fight battles, she needs to do what she feels best. Some are Ok, some not (though this is often more mental than physical).

I was given a 30% chance of survival from secondary, I will fight this all the way. I have opted for no benefits (DLA or ESA) as for me it will give in, though I know everyone is different. I want my life (what is left of it), spent happy without fights or struggles. I just want peace, ultimate peace to enjoy my family, money means nothing.

I wish her well and will light a candle for faith and health on her behalf at mass.

Good luck

James123_2

Well said Bloolagoon. Cancer is a very personal experience and affects individuals in wildly different ways. I'm glad that you've found a way to cope. I think my OH is more concerned with her heart condition than the cancer. Like you, she just doesn't want any stress. Best Wishes.

Confuseddot

There are plenty of people who receive DLA and do work so I don't think that should have any bearing on the matter. I suppose it may be the other benefits she may or may get on the back of ESA ... but I am no expert.

I don't think anyone can make you apply as long as you can do without the money then its each to their own I think.

rogerblack

James123 wrote: »

Thanks. I did see the clause about recovering from chemotherapy. As far as I can see there is no timescale published for how long this might be considered. Many patients can be permanently affected by such. However, I think she's heard too much about ATOS to take it further. Only the support group would be appropriate in her condition and this is just too much of a long-shot.
I suppose the short version of my question would be whether declining the ESA process might trigger a review of her DLA.

Everyones on ESA/IB's DLA is being reviewed and PIP being decided on.
If you believe there is a reasonable chance of her being found to be eligible for the support group - send in the form along with all documentary evidence you have.
She can always withdraw her claim if she is called for an interview.
And it may go through without.

James123_2

Thanks again. It was a strange question, I know! Appreciate the replies. Will consider the options a little further.