Esa

[Cal66]

Hi

Hi

Following from my email last week regarding re-applying for Esa as for the past 3 years i was in the support group. I am medically retired. From the Inland revenue, I am barely able to use my hands and I use a wheelchair when I go out, I have to permanently rely on my family for everything. I have just been reading past emails about applying for Esa, they all say that it helps to get letters from your GP. My GP retired and another company took over, I try to avoid going to GP as I am nervous of new doctors, because i don't know if they think I am wasting their time & they do not know me to write a letter about me. My Rhumatologist, I haven't seen him since July & I am over the time he wanted to see me, so I can't ask him for a letter.

Please can someone give me an idea of how to deal with this. Thanks

[MEW53]

Cal66,

Tricky situation for you especially as your GP has retired, is there a district nurse or other health professional attached to your surgery that can help you, they may be able to write a letter for you.

Good luck

[AgedCrone]

The GP who has taken over your care will have all your previous doctor's notes,& if you go to see him & explain what you need it is his duty to help you.

It will of course mean he has to see you, so get one of our family go with you for support,& a second pair of ears & I'm sure the new GP wil write the letter you need.

[DJK99]

Hey Cal - why cant you ask your Rheumy for a letter? Have they signed you off their care? Im guessing not? Sure they can do this for you. Id call Lupus UK for some advice asap as they are so helpful. Also here is a link to their fact sheet on getting benefits: lupusuk.org.uk/benefits/

At the bottom of the link it talks about SeAP which is: seAp (an independent charity providing free independent and confidential advocacy services) has developed a new online resource called 'C-App' to help people with disabilities or long term physical or mental health conditions apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

Sounds like they would be perfect for you?

Your GP surgery will have all your records as AgedCrone says and absolutely will be able to help you - speak to the practice manager if there is one? You should be able to ask for access to Patient Access (I have and its really helpful to see all my diagnoses, blood tests, clinicial letters etc). I can see where my bloods have dipped and all sorts... very helpful to discuss with clinicians as you know what you are talking about ie what is happening in your body inside and out. You have to ask for a form to fill in and then once signed and theyve got it back youll get an email or letter with how to access. Its a brilliant tool.

I do hope this helps... Lupus UK will definitely give you all the support they can, I know.... Good luck and heres to you getting what you deserve! All the best, D x