Not hearing from ESA for renewal?

Blackout05

Two years ago in April I got put into the ESA support group, this was after being denied ESA, and having to go through a Mandetory consideration and then having to appeal through the courts, I have to add I never actually ended up going to court, I was expecting a long wait, but within weeks a judge (i think) sent a letter to me after reviewing the evidence saying I was going to be put in the support group and recommended 'two years'.

Well the two years is up, we are going into June and I have heard nothing about a review, is this normal? Could it be due to the pandemic. Shall I just leave it and wait? I do not really want to call them, I presume its ongoing anyway as its income based. 

Spoonie_Turtle

Blackout05 said:

Two years ago in April I got put into the ESA support group, this was after being denied ESA, and having to go through a Mandetory consideration and then having to appeal through the courts, I have to add I never actually ended up going to court, I was expecting a long wait, but within weeks a judge (i think) sent a letter to me after reviewing the evidence saying I was going to be put in the support group and recommended 'two years'.

Well the two years is up, we are going into June and I have heard nothing about a review, is this normal? Could it be due to the pandemic. Shall I just leave it and wait? I do not really want to call them, I presume its ongoing anyway as its income based. 

I'd leave it.  Maybe make sure you're ready to fill in the form whenever it does arrive if you want to, but beyond that I wouldn't worry.  My aunt has been on ESA for over 7 years and hasn't had a single review, which obviously she's quite happy to let continue!  Of course that's very unusual, but as you say it's ongoing so no review, no problem.

calcotti

ESA decisions, unlike PIP, are open ended. That means that your award continues until such time as a different decision is made. Although DWP will have a review date marker on their system even before the pandemic reviews were often later than marked. You need do nothing until contacted by a DWP - unless your health improves and you think you no longer meet the conditions.

poppy12345

I believe there's huge backlogs too, which is understandable. I agree with others, do nothing until that envelope drops through your door.

TELLIT01

I know I'm only repeating what has been said above but do nothing to encourage a review of your claim.