0 points agoraphobia, anxiety, depression

Thank you Gordon,
Does anyone know how long it takes between asking to be placed back on assessment rate ESA, and them actually doing it? Its been nearly a couple of weeks and I haven't had any response, nor the bundle of papers.

I sent them my backdated fit note and letter, this was recorded I have a receipt, forgot to date the letter though unfortunately.

Thanks Gordon It is sorted now, I have received the back payment. I avoided the phone call for a long time (telephone phobia) and sent two letters neither of which got answers and one telephone call sorted it out when I finally mustered up the strength, the lady on the phone was very nice and helpful.
I've received the bundle from DWP.

There isn't much they've added except their stance is that I haven't provided sufficient evidence to prove I'm not fit for work.

But I have sent personal diary of struggles for a week, detailed account of what happens to me when I do things I cannot manage, sleep diary, letter from family member, past medication summary, appointment letters, past gp form stating my conditions (but not recent), esa50 sent late,

They've said what I provided "does not suggest functional restrictions"

On the one hand they've said I don't provide enough evidence to prove my conditions stop me from working and on the other they have said my own words and personal account explaining how my conditions affect me isn't good enough, nor the records I sent. I'm confused at how someone in my position is going to win?

What do the appeal think about evidence such as this? Do they accept personal words and accounts and letters from family as proper evidence? What do the panel and DWP expect me to send that proves I am not fit for work? Am I missing something, like a psychiatrist or mental health nurse to fill out a form for me and confirm my own words that I am not mentally well enough to have and keep a job? The only problem is my MH appointment is in April and in early stages.

They act as if everyone is very close to their GP who is up to date with their illness and sees them weekly and can get a letter but my gp could not help me any further, and because of my mental health I had not been able to see anyone before this year, so what about those vulnerable people who fall off the radar, which is what happened to me pretty much.

I am not sure whether to respond to the DWP as the summary of their response is that my evidence does not prove I am not fit for work, when I have sent them all that I can.

They also said many people in my position who have referrals and appointments are able to continue and remain in and seek employment I do feel I said everything that needed to be said in my appeal pack SSCS1 form - a couple of sides of A4. Like I said, what more can I provide?

Anyway this is my update. Thanks for all the help and advice. I am just trying not think about this any more to be honest.

9 (b) Is unable to get to a specified place with which the claimant is familiar, without being accompanied by another person. 9 points

16 (a) Engagement in social contact is always precluded due to difficulty relating to others or significant distress experienced by the individual. 15 points

13 (c) Frequently cannot, due to impaired mental function, reliably initiate or complete at least 2 personal actions. 6 points

12(c) (c) Reduced awareness of everyday hazards leads to a significant risk of:
(i) injury to self or others; or (ii) damage to property or possessions such that they occasionally require supervision to maintain safety. 6 points