I was taken off ESA and placed on JSA.
They then decided this was the wrong decision and ive been placed back on ESA but im still getting the pityfull amount of JSA.
Im getting deeper and deeper into debt.
Why havent they started paying me the full ESA yet?
It took them 5 minutes to stop it
Do you have any advocate or CAB?
Spidey, you will need to review your finances and cut back everything you can - because with the government cuts there is no guarantee you will get the ESA back and you can't risk making a rod for your own back
Get CAB to make sure you have claimed everything you might be entitled to though.
When I got ill we ended up moving house because we knew we had to dramatically reduce outgoings. There was no guarantee I would ever recover. The pension I got after 4 years of illness is less than a quarter of what I used to earn -but enough to put us out of any benefits. It keeps us afloat - just - but if we hadnt decided early doors that our 5-bed house was now just a dream, and downsized to a 2 up 2 down cottage we would hsve gone under financially. As it was I became an expert in feeding a family of 4 on £35 a week because until my husband found work that was it. It is tough....tough choices and being tough on yourself for a long time takes its toll, but rein in quick and you may survive without going under.
I had a letter saying they have now changed their minds after I supplied them with letters supporting me. I’m still on JSA that they switched me too. The job centre have told me I no longer need to look for work
One of the (very) lucky ones. Hope it all settles down for you now.
Trust me it was very difficult to get it back. I’ve still not got my PIP back. This was stopped in May. I was supposed to attend a tribunal for it but that’s been rescheduled and they’ve not yet set a date
Hi Spideyman been through this with my partner and it is so difficult and so you have my sympathy.
My first suggestion is get as much evidence as you possibly can to back you up. Dr's letters consultants letters. Anything you possibly can.
Secondly find a person who can advocate on your behalf. Someone from the CAB or the council. Someone who knows how the system works. It's all about how many points you are awarded.
Thirdly, document EVERYTHING! If this is something that you might struggle with ask someone else to help.
There is a very good site called Benefits and Work that often make very good suggestions but it costs money for certain aspects. It's still worth signing up for the newsletter though and that's free.
As far as things like bills go many of the utility companies, gas, electricity and water suppliers have funds to help people who are struggling with bills and can give funds to help if you meet their criteria.
Lastly, you are not alone. All the best to you and hope you get sorted 
Thaanks but ive sorted out the ESA with letters from GP and MP etc. Just waiting now for the ESA to begin again
Hi Spideyman. Yes I saw that after I'd replied. Glad you're sorted. Maybe if someone else is struggling this thread will be useful to them.
All the best to you
Long short 
ESA....
How long.....
What does it feel like to you?
