Awarded LWC but...

SuzieM

If I’d known this was going to happen I’d not added the other medical problem! My work coach has sent an email to the Case Manager hoping the appointment can be put on hold showing the WCA folk the updates. I’ll keep you all posted. Thank you all so much for your input, much appreciated.

SuzieM

I’ve now sent two messages to my work coach, got no reply to both! Argh. If I don’t hear from her by tomorrow morning I’ll phone the WCA regarding my appointment at 08.50, too early for me, my body doesn’t work well first thing.

poppy12345

SuzieM wrote: »

I’ve now sent two messages to my work coach, got no reply to both! Argh. If I don’t hear from her by tomorrow morning I’ll phone the WCA regarding my appointment at 08.50, too early for me, my body doesn’t work well first thing.

It maybe better to ring UC rather than leave a message on your journal. You will still need to ring the health assessment providers anyway because you have a WCA in a few days.

Alice_Holt

SuzieM wrote: »

I’ve now sent two messages to my work coach, got no reply to both! Argh. If I don’t hear from her by tomorrow morning I’ll phone the WCA regarding my appointment at 08.50, too early for me, my body doesn’t work well first thing.

Then ring the assessing company (as poppy suggests) to get an appointment location / time you can do.
https://www.chdauk.co.uk/frequently-asked-questions

You can still see if the DWP will suspend the need for an assessment following your tribunal.
However, it may well be that they want to assess how your new / worsening condition affects you.

Remember that failure to attend a WCA could end your LCA status.

SuzieM

Thanks for your replies. I’m very stressed out with this happening. It makes me feel like giving up.

poppy12345

SuzieM wrote: »

Thanks for your replies. I’m very stressed out with this happening. It makes me feel like giving up.

You should never report any changes without first getting some advice.

SuzieM

My work coach advised me to add my new condition. If I’d known I was going to be in this situation again I wouldn’t have bothered.

SuzieM

I’ve cancelled the appointment and requested an afternoon slot. Phoned the UC, the person talking in circles, not knowing what’s going on. No answer from my work coach either, I wasn’t expecting a reply tbh.

Alice_Holt

SuzieM wrote: »

I’ve cancelled the appointment and requested an afternoon slot. Phoned the UC, the person talking in circles, not knowing what’s going on. No answer from my work coach either, I wasn’t expecting a reply tbh.

Remember to take a copy of the tribunal decision notice with you.

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/employment-and-support-allowance/help-with-your-esa-claim/esa-medical-assessment/
Also take copies of any other relevant evidence (Did you do a UC50? Did you enclose any medical evidence with it?)

I would also go through the WCA descriptors and points, and identify (take notes for yourself) those which apply because of your new condition. I have asked several times if you completed a UC50 form, but I don't recall you answering - take a copy of it, if you did.

When answering questions / recalling a typical day - remember reliability, explain fully why the activity is difficult for you. (Again, do some preparation).

Have you arranged a taxi? Or have you someone who can come with you?
(If you get there on your own using public transport, the assessor may draw conclusions that could affect your claim).
https://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/employment-and-support-allowance/esa-medicals
Get your companion to take a notebook and pencil, and take notes of the assessment.

Note: The assessment for ESA WCA is the same as UC WCA.

poppy12345

Alice_Holt wrote: »

I have asked several times if you completed a UC50 form, but I don't recall you answering - take a copy of it, if you did.

This hasn't been answered. OP can you please answer this question. As you reported a change of circumstances then a work capability form should have been received.