I`ve been put in the WRAG after ESA medical can anyone tell me what this means? I feel there is no way I could manage working as I have RA.

[Philip]

I can't help sorry, I'm struggling to understand the benefit system at all but I'm interested to see the answers you get.

Philip

[Hidden in reply to Philip]

Hopefully someone will? watch this space.

[Crazyjo]

I think it means you still have to look towards going to work, not 100% sure but that seemed to be the answer on the internet

[Hidden in reply to Crazyjo]

I`ve got my first job centre next week so I`m sure I`ll find out more then.

Thanks for your reply crazyjo

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Interview lol

[nomoreheels]

Hiya Flanners. Maybe this will explain more benefitsandwork.co.uk/emplo.... Sounds like you're going to have to fight your corner if you don't feel fit for work.

[Hidden in reply to nomoreheels]

Yeah its seems I am, I still don't have my meds sorted after 18mths.

MTX and sulfasalazine plus hydroxy are causing problems with liver.

I`d love nothing more than be back at work living a normal life, but RA has taken that away from me I didn't ask to be ill!

Thanks for your reply.

[Sailaway]

Have you spoken to the CAB about benefits? They would help you appeal the decision, it sounds like that's worth looking at, but I think there's a time limit on making an appeal. It's worth getting in touch with them as soon as you can, they're amazing at what they do.

I've just spotted that there's also a question asked by Marushka about benefits; Beverley from NRAS gave links to 2 other organisations that give this kind of advice, Turn2Us and Dial. Take a look through the questions, these organisations might also be able to help you out.

[munchkin]

From what i can understand those who qualify for ESA are split into two groups those who need support and those that are in the Work Related Activity Group (WRAG). Does this cover voluntary work or just paid work? Who knows, but you must do an activity involving work or looking for work. One of my friends is quite physically disabled and he has been told that he will be given training to work in the voluntary sector. Probably answering phones in a charity shop.

[Hidden]

Thanks for your reply munchkin, I think I'm going to appeal and see where that takes me.

Tom