Dare I leave ESA support group

SlimmingSusan

Really having a crisis of confidence.

After a few years of major life events, I applied for university in January, at 48, was accepted on the strength of past qualifications, and am due to start in September.

Went downhill healthwise due to dad's deterioration and family issues, and, to cut a long story short, was put into ESA support group for a year in June.

Was my understanding that I would give this up when start uni on 16th Sept, but am panicking as it comes closer. I am under local mental health services, which has been an experience of lack in itself. I've benn under them on and off for years.

I am panicking. I need extra support. I am in the support group for a reason, I am avoiding thinking about uni, just have moments. I am not right.

What should I do?

rogerblack

Are you claiming DLA?
If so, in some cases, you can continue to claim ESA while a student.

SlimmingSusan

no, was on carers allowance and income support for a few years looking after my dad who died in may. My region does pip now. I only came onto ESA in March, i think.

SlimmingSusan

I see dla as long term anyway, have been unwell for a long time, but am wanting to get better. Dad was ill for a long time. I was the coper in the family, but somehow stopped coping

SlimmingSusan

I think have answered my own question. Clearly not. I just want to be normal again.

If I ever was.

Confuseddot

Personally I think normal is so over rated

Why not speak to the mental health team about your issues and maybe contact the university to see if they have anything in place that could offer you some support. Worst case you could always ask to postpone for a year.

Good luck !

rowland37

I would suggest making an application for PIP. You are 'normal', simply with additional needs, this is the basis for and the intention of DLA/PIP payment - to provide financial support for additional needs due to illness/disability. Have you considered studying part-time/deferring for a year?

Ames

You might be able to get disabled students' allowance, which will pay for someone to be with you while you're at uni, to support you. I've just filled in my application.

I'm studying part time as a mature student, which means that I'm with the lifelong learning department rather than my subject department, and I get loads of support from them. Having tried other ways of studying (normal full time, open uni) this is the only way that's worked for me.

(I have mental health issues too).