How to make a claim for ESA

[sydney]

Hello everyone, I have been refered to occupational health due to my PBC and the itch which keeps me awake most nights and I can't function properly during the day. I don't know how much longer I can cope with work, although my job isn't to demanding, just getting ready and getting there is so hard due to the tiredness. I need advice on how to apply for ESA, can anyone help me please? x x

[Universal44]

Don't know how to help but I sympathise with you,Iv been up all night and dragging my ass to shower to get ready go do an 8 hour shift and ny tank is on empty :((((((.

Best of luck to you x

[SC49]

gov.uk/employment-support-a...

Hi Sydney

The details of how to claim are in the above link. I have had the same troubles as you so i know how you are feeling.

If you are working and if you have been referred to Occ Health, I would be inclined to wait and see what they recommend before making any decisions. One of the important things to know is that eligibility for ESA is time limited and subject to quite stringent tests of eligibility. Remember that Occupational Health are there to help you to stay at work and to recommend things that will help you to stay healthy while you are working.

It might be better to stay with your employer and see if there is anything that they can do to accommodate you rather than give up work. They might be in a position to let you work part time or flexible hours, or change / amend your role. It is worth pursuing all possibilities before you make your final decision.

One of the things that I have heard from here and other forums is that the symptoms fluctuate wildly. They could ease as quickly as they came on and you might be feeling more able to work normally. (sadly it hasn't happened for me yet)

I am suggesting this because once you are on that ESA treadmill, it can be a very difficult and stressful process. They make an assessment based on your 'functional capacity' rather than how ill you are.

Also, if you are in a union, please talk to them about what your options might be. If you are not in a union, now is a good time to join most unions have a rep who has experience with people who are ill/disabled.I am in GMB but I haven't 'tested' their expertise just yet.

I would also suggest that you contact the PBC foundation (pbcfoundation.org.uk/)

They can provide you with information/ leaflets about PBC which might help with explaining to the Occ Health people. They may also be able to give you guidance about who to speak to when/ if you make a claim for benefits.

Good luck- I know how difficult these decisions are - I still haven't made my final decision about work because I live in hope that some day I am going to wake up 'normal'