Confused with all these benefits

[Bellydot]

Ok I had a call today from DWP to say that I had received no points from my medical assessment for ESA on 19/9 and that the benefit would be stopped from tomorrow!!!

So as far as they are concerned after a l5-s1 spinal fusion in July , fibromyalgia and a history of depress I can work !!

I now have to speak to another department to see if I qualify for job seekers allowance and they will help me find work

When I asked what employer do they think will employ me with my current status they stated that employers recognise illnesses and will help employees find a job with adjustments .....

are they having a laugh??? That’s why I left my last job as when they found out about my health problems they conveniently made me redundant

I am so frustrated and having worked for 39 years this is the first time I have asked for help and it stinks !!!

[Dexmar13]

I would appeal against there decision of no points any evidence must be backed up by doctors or consultants letters on how your illness prevents you from working x

[-caz]

You can appeal, theres been a few people in the forum that are in the middle off appeals just now maybe get some help on what to do next 👍

[DanielleGemma]

I’m so sorry hun! I don’t know a lot about the process but I would definitely appeal! I know quite a lot of members have been successful after they have applied! Please let us know what happens ♥️🌻

[phlebo123]

Hello, May I suggest that you try phoning Janet on the FMA UK Benefits Helpline on 0300 999 0055, which is open on Monday and Friday morning from 10 - 12. She may be able to help you understand what your options are. Good luck, take care xxx

[Rainbow_Chaser]

Some people sail through this process & for some it is very distressing, traumatic & soul-destroying! I have no idea why it is difficult for some & not others.. & if the DWP 'cherry pick' those who will qualify & those who won't! Suffice it to say, the 'system' is very unfair!

I have experienced the process too & unfortunately, my experience was a 'distressing, traumatic & soul-destroying' one & understand exactly why the UN call it a 'Human Catastrophe'!

I am going to be positive though for you because being negative won't help you... Please get some advice. Phlebo123 gave details in post about Janet & I have received advice from Janet myself - she is amazing & very supportive & will advise you to the best of her ability.

The CAB helped me with my PIP Appeal/Tribunal - a representative did almost everything for me & came with me to my Tribunal.. & I won, so the support they offer was invaluable to me.

I also received support from my GP & other Specialists...

I appreciate that having to do all this seems daunting, given we have lots of health problems to deal with but please do your best to make the effort - do not let them win. If you qualify, you have every right to receive the benefit.

Good luck & keep us posted...

Debs <3

[Shazzzy]

Hi Bellydot, yes it is crap that you are put through this performance to get what you are entitled to, that's why you paid tax for all those years. 80 % of apeals are won at tribunal so definately appeal. A tribunal is just a room with a lawyer doctor and a disabled person present who will ask questions about what you can and can't do. You can explain where previous assessor lied/got it wrong and why you can no longer work. All the best to you.

[Fybro23]

Appeal!!!

[Heliboy911]

You have my sympathy I had the same problem I have worked all my life since leaving school at the age of 15 and served my country for 9 years in the Army and after a stroke and other major health problems Kidney disease, severe breathing problems I could not work but was turned down twice for any benefits. A charity helped me to get them to acknowledge the severity of my health problems and I finally won but made to feel like a scrounger

[Bellydot in reply to Heliboy911]

Thanks for telling me about you I am pleased it got sorted out eventually 😊 as for me I have to remain positive and believe that we are all entitled to what we can get when we need it . The problem is trying to get people to understand!!!