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- Scored 66 using possible new score system for ESA
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Scored 66 using possible new score system for ESA
- Gordon
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13 years 6 months ago #30043 by Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
Replied by Gordon on topic Re:Scored 66 using possible new score system for ESA
Whilst I would agree that the tests seem more suited to those with ME/CFS, I've suffered for over 12 years, the real issue is whether the ATOS staff apply the test correctly or at all.
There is guidance in the current Health Professionals handbook, the decision makers handbook and the ESA guideline about the variability of illnesses such as ME/CFS and the the need to apply a "reasonable regularity" test to each of the WCA tests, and yet is consitently ignored.
In my WCA, I repeatedly stated the need to rest for 2-3 hours after each activity, and whilst this was noted in the typical day, when the tests were applied it was completely ignored.
I don't know whether this is a training issue, the curent test software does not account for it, or they simply can't be bothered, but unless this aspect is changed I doubt the new test will be any better than the current.
Steve
There is guidance in the current Health Professionals handbook, the decision makers handbook and the ESA guideline about the variability of illnesses such as ME/CFS and the the need to apply a "reasonable regularity" test to each of the WCA tests, and yet is consitently ignored.
In my WCA, I repeatedly stated the need to rest for 2-3 hours after each activity, and whilst this was noted in the typical day, when the tests were applied it was completely ignored.
I don't know whether this is a training issue, the curent test software does not account for it, or they simply can't be bothered, but unless this aspect is changed I doubt the new test will be any better than the current.
Steve
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
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- Survivor
13 years 6 months ago #30050 by Survivor
Replied by Survivor on topic Re:Scored 66 using possible new score system for ESA
I think it's designed to be better - better, that is, for getting us off the better paid benefits and onto JSA. Not into work - there isn't enough for those fit for it, let alone the rest of us.
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- micksville
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13 years 6 months ago #30052 by micksville
Replied by micksville on topic Re:Scored 66 using possible new score system for ESA
I recieved a reply only this morning from Chris Grayling minister of employment ( via my MP). He merely trotted out the party line and pointed me to Professor harrington's upcoming review in December and the pdf file on DWP website that was posted here last year. I doubt Professor harrington's input will see the proposed new test changed significantly.
In my case I am looking at the physical descriptors and might be a borderline case as some of the descriptors I couldn't do repeatedy and safely with regard to mobilising and remaining at a work station - getting in and out of a chair etc. You really are at the mercy of the ATOS official and how he "assumes" you to be on the day.
In my case I am looking at the physical descriptors and might be a borderline case as some of the descriptors I couldn't do repeatedy and safely with regard to mobilising and remaining at a work station - getting in and out of a chair etc. You really are at the mercy of the ATOS official and how he "assumes" you to be on the day.
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- mistynow
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13 years 6 months ago #30055 by mistynow
Replied by mistynow on topic Re:Scored 66 using possible new score system for ESA
Well for us paraplegics in wheelchairs its a disaster. The Muscular dystrophy Assoc. and others have been campaigning heavily on our behalf for those with Neuromuscular diseases and got nowhere !!!
The view seems to be that we are all still young and fit enough to swing ourselves around as I know I used to... self-propel a wheelchair forget it unless the surface is perfect then its only a few yards and how would any employer like me yelling for help as I miss my swing trying to get onto the toilet..
but age and physical deterioration will not stop ATOS in their tracks.....
Wheelchair users have been heavily targeted in the new descriptors.
The view seems to be that we are all still young and fit enough to swing ourselves around as I know I used to... self-propel a wheelchair forget it unless the surface is perfect then its only a few yards and how would any employer like me yelling for help as I miss my swing trying to get onto the toilet..
but age and physical deterioration will not stop ATOS in their tracks.....
Wheelchair users have been heavily targeted in the new descriptors.
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