ESA more mucking about?

[gardengnome]

bbc.co.uk/news/uk-28282111

not sure what this will bring?

Gov introducing a mandatory mental health assessment in the ESA

Maybe it will make things better, but when they are saying that the move will save money--- it does seem suspicious.

What level of proof will be needed for ESA i wonder?

[Golfer15]

This might affect me. Im still waiting for an asessment.

[Stilltrying_]

It did say on the video I just watched that it is still at the development stage and that it will not be mandatory but yes things are toughening up all round and whilst it is good that they are thinking of offering more talking therapy it does worry me that the motive behind this is all money saving and people could still be pushed to go for things they are not really ready to tackle. We will have to wait and see I guess.

I can see all points of view as obviously it is a financial drain to have so many people on disability benefits but I am not sure that they would genuinely support ; I think it could feel like having a gun at your head and being told to get better or else !

Also having to go for more and more assessments is in my opinion damaging people's mental health through the stress of it all.

[Hidden]

Personally I cannot see that happening as most of us with mental health problems mention all on the forms they send

Mind I suppose I can see them making sure that we are six eggs short of a dozen.

BOB

[Photogeek]

Hi Bob nice to see you posting. You always make me laugh. 6 eggs short of

A dozen. Never heard that expression. Before. Hope you are well and Hazel too

And all furry creatures.

Hannah x

[baxie]

When I filled in my ESA form and was put into the Work Related Activity Group I, stupidly, assumed that I would get Work Related Activities. When I asked what help is available, I get asked if I see a psychiatrist and do I take my medication, I said yes to both, they said I would get phone call every few months to see how I am feeling.

The stress of filling in these bloody forms nearly drove me to suicide, and will have to go through it again in Jan/Feb 2015.

I find it insulting that I have to "Prove" my illness, but the people who come up with the ideas do not have to prove that they are competent to carry out their duties.

[gardengnome in reply to baxie]

gosh baxie, i wonder if they recruit their policy makers from the circus, such a bunch of clowns..