Erudio Loan Disability Deferment

SJMacE

Hi all

I'm just looking for some advice.

I have been in receipt of ESA and PIP for at least 10yrs. In that period I have only managed to get one 3yr deferment for my Erudio student loan (which was for the past 3yrs). This year they have once again only granted me a 1yr deferment, insisting that they will only extend this to the 3yrs (that I'm actually eligible to) if I provide them with a letter from my GP. Now I have two issues with this request. Firstly it will cost me money. There's no way my GP will write a letter without me paying for it. Secondly, like every other person in receipt of ESA and PIP, I have already had to prove my disability. The DWP no longer accept the Dr's opinion in regards to sickness, we have to attend meetings and prove ourselves. So why should the GP's opinion be rated more highly by Erudio?

It just feels like a ploy to make you beg again for help!

I thought the Equalities Act was meant to protect us from this kind of behaviour?!

Thoughts please people....

deannagone

The way I look at it, the extra money you get with PIP and ESA can be used to fund things like GP letters, extra expenses because of the disability.  If they have asked for a letter from the GP, then I'm afraid that is what you need to provide.  But having said that, I used to apply for Student Loan deferments yearly.., I took the attitude that that is just what you have to do.  Its only once a year, not every month etc.

I choose my battles over what I will fight for if I feel something is an injustice.  It has to be worth it.  Otherwise I'd be a total stressball and there's enough challenge as it is.