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Anchoress

I think my centre is run by Maximus. Anyway I've just got through to them after being given six different phone numbers. They are going to check with the Doctor that was supposed to come, and call me back.

Anchoress

A quick update - I think the recorded delivery appointment letter might only be done by some assessors and isn't standard practice. So if anyone does receive their appointment by RD and doesn't sign for it, best phone and confirm that you're available in case the same thing happens to you.

I've had two others RD packages since and the postman hasn't bothered to get a signature for them either, he's posted them with the ordinary mail through the letterbox.

I received another appointment letter that was sent by ordinary post on Saturday, my assessment was this morning.

All went well and the assessor was very nice and respectful. At the end of it he said he would make his report and felt confident that I would be awarded ESA support group again as nothing had changed since last time.

I'm not sure if he was trying to reassure me and lessen the stress of waiting for a decision or if it was an easy way to extract himself in case I fell weeping at his feet begging to be put in the support group (not that I would of course, I do have some dignity left despite what the process puts us through).

Anyway I'll have to wait the few weeks for the formal decision.

Tolly_T

That sounds very positive. It must be a relief that it's over. I think some assessors seem nice in the assessment and then give rubbish reports and zero points but that's different than if they actually say they are confident that you'll be in the ESA support group - I'd take that as positive.

Anchoress

Hi Tolly, yes it is a relief it's over, however, I've been feeling really unwell since. Not sure if it's something I ate, a stomach bug or a stress reaction. I'm a little better today though.

I do heed your words of caution though. If I'm not given the support group I will have no choice but to appeal unfortunately, but fingers crossed it will be okay.

The assessor also said that I'd probably have one more assessment before I get to retirement age (currently I'm 61 so reach retirement age in 2020) and I wouldn't have to worry about assessments any more. I did get the feeling that he understood how stressful it can be for people.

Anchoress

A further update on the above - I have received my award letter and have been put in the support group. Phew :j

I would like a copy of the assessors report for my records. Is it an ESA85? And whom should I phone, Maximus or the DWP?

I received my previous ESA50 on my birthday in 2011 and it had to be completed and sent by 3rd January 2012. A few days after receiving it I went down with the real McCoy flu and was very unwell for three weeks. I did phone and ask for an extension but it was denied. For that whole month of December I was in desperate straits but did manage to send some information. Every birthday and Christmas since I've been expecting a form around that time so it's been a miserable time for some years.

Perhaps I can enjoy my birthday and Christmas for a change :xmassmile