Part time distance learning while claiming New Style contribution based ESA (support group)

HappyZen

I have recently started a claim for ESA, four week ago and not heard anything yet.  I'm hoping to be put into the support group (anxiety, Rheumatoid Arthritis and my need to require the toilet urgently and unexpectedly)

However I have been offered the chance to undertake a Free level 2 course on Children's Mental Health and I would be really like to do it. It is distance learning, part time, working at your own pace.
I am anxious because you need to give you National Insurance number on the paperwork. Will this affect my claim or what group I might be placed in?
Thank you.

[Deleted User]

You don't know what group you will be placed in, it could be some time before you have your assessment, if the course is "free" why do they need your N.I, number? is it just free to you and they claim it back? Given you own health issues would you be able to do a job based on the qualification you might/might not get?
Sorry to be negative but I'm not sure you have thought this through yet.

Spoonie_Turtle

You need to know which descriptors you think apply to you in order to work out whether you should be put in the support group according to the legislation.

I don't know what the rules are for distance learning and ESA (which I assume is basically what you're asking, sorry I can't be more help with that!) but in terms of the assessment it shouldn't affect anything as long as what you put on your form doesn't contradict what you'd actually be doing whilst undertaking the course.

HappyZen

venison said:

You don't know what group you will be placed in, it could be some time before you have your assessment, if the course is "free" why do they need your N.I, number? is it just free to you and they claim it back? Given you own health issues would you be able to do a job based on the qualification you might/might not get?
Sorry to be negative but I'm not sure you have thought this through yet.

I think it's so they can claim it back.
 I enjoy learning, I feel would find the course interesting, maybe I could volunteer in the distant future and because my child has MH issues and it could be very insightful.

HappyZen

Spoonie_Turtle said:

You need to know which descriptors you think apply to you in order to work out whether you should be put in the support group according to the legislation.

I don't know what the rules are for distance learning and ESA (which I assume is basically what you're asking, sorry I can't be more help with that!) but in terms of the assessment it shouldn't affect anything as long as what you put on your form doesn't contradict what you'd actually be doing whilst undertaking the course.

Looking at the descriptors I should be placed in the support group. The course involves completing a workbook and online flexible learning so would't have to do it on the days I'm fatigued. There are no essays and...my husband can scribe if my wrists are too painful to write, the course is not very long, only 3 weeks but I can take longer if needed, plus because it's at home I am close to a toilet!
I really enjoy learning and my son has experienced some MH issues so I am very interested in doing it.