What delays can I expect in ESA reassessment?

Debt_Tired

Hello, my current ESA entitlement ends in November, when I will be reassessed. I understand that ATOS are now out of the picture, and that there are still delays in processing existing claims and/or reassessments. I live in Hull; question: should I expect any delays in being reassessed, and if there is a delay, will I have to provide sick notes?

Best Wishes

Debt Tired....

Indie_Kid

You won't have to provide sick notes. Your ESA is paid as normal until a decision is made. If that takes them until January for example, you'll still get paid your current rate.

nannytone_2

from what ive heard, there are still lomg delays, with many reassessments not being carried out.
you say your claim ends in november, but that is not entirely correct.
they would have given you a 'prognosis' and at the end of that time you would be reassessed... the claim doesnt end if the assessment is late. it is more of a guide than anything else.
you wont have to send in sick notes

tomtontom

ATOS are still carrying out some reassessments. Delays vary between areas, your WCA may or may not be completed in/ by November, although it is unlikely if you've not yet received the ESA50?

hippygran

My hubbys ESA was due for renewal May. He was called into the job centre for another work capability assessment interview, when he discovered that the reassessment had taken place (without a medical - or even his knowledge!), and his award is valid until July 2016! So don't stress. You may just be reassessed without you even being aware of it!

Murphybear

I have been called for a face to face assessment, I filled out my ESA50 in July 2013. If i "fail" I shall appeal and by the time any tribunal happens I will have retired and no longer need to claim ESA.

rogerblack

hippygran wrote: »

My hubbys ESA was due for renewal May. He was called into the job centre for another work capability assessment interview, when he discovered that the reassessment had taken place (without a medical - or even his knowledge!), and his award is valid until July 2016! So don't stress. You may just be reassessed without you even being aware of it!

The visits to the jobcentre are Work Focussed Interviews.
They have no direct impact on the Work Capability Assessment process - which is to determine if you're fit for work, or entitled to one of the two groups of ESA.

As you've found, ESA decisions can be done 'on paper'.
Only if the decision initially is made that you can work must they conduct a full WCA - including an in-person assessment by a Health Care Professional.

Sorry for being picky - but unfortunately, terminology here is important.

1234mas430

Debt_Tired wrote: »

I understand that ATOS are now out of the picture, Debt Tired....

I have to see ATOS on Monday for my ESA support. I too thought they were out of the picture but was told they have extended the time they stay until the DWP has everything in place!

melbury

I thought ATOS had stopped doing the ESA medical assessments.

At my OH's last assessment, he was told he wouldn't be recalled for a year, but that year is nearly up now.

I thought there was such a backlog that people were going to be left for longer between assessments - isn't that the case?

HB58

ATOS's contract doesn't finish until early next year, they will continue ESA assessments until then.

Many people are finding that their expected reassessments have not happened, but this is a procedural matter, not a change in regulations. I have heard of quite a few people who have started the process.