Dreaded ESA assessment today!!!

DW1234 · 18 October 2017 at 11:18PM

Well today was the dreaded ESA assessment date for my daughter (2nd assessment in 6 weeks, as also had PIP recently). She has been in support group IB for few years, and suffers from MH issues.

Managed to get her to the assessment centre despite her being in a state of extreme anxiety/panic, to be advised there was a delay, they agreed to allow her to remain in car as she was so distressed and they would come for us when ready.

Eventually after 1 hour, goodness knows how I managed to keep her in the car, they called us in.

The assessment lasted 30 min, the man seemed to listen and understand the issues, and actually spoke to me as much as daughter. We confirmed her health problems and how they effected her on a daily basis. He had the paper form in front of him, and typed on PC throughout. He asked me what I did for her and the care I provided, also what would happen if I didn’t.

I think it went ok, but from experience of previous ESA assessments I don’t trust him to do an accurate account, and I am very worried in case they remove her from support group....she will not be able to attend WRAG appointments and I would fear for her safety if forced to do so.

Also I am concerned that our area is now a UC, so I am worried about getting back on ESA if we have to go to tribunal again...we did this once before years ago and won.

I guess although it’s very difficult for her, it’s also a huge strain for me, trying to reassure her, when I am also feeling very scared about the likely fight ahead, which we will do...but it gets so draining the constant fighting the system whilst caring at the same time.

I know lots of people are in the same position, and I am so grateful for this site, as I am sure I will need guidance in the months ahead.