esa and autism

gertrude2 wrote: I notice conditions such as autism were in the 'not to be called for face to face assessment' (if such a thing exists) list on contract, I think someone used Freedom of Info act to access. Then the list changed substantially. It is a very real fear for those on autistic spectrum who struggle substantially that face to face assessment with a non autism specialist will be very unfavourable to them and create huge anxiety and triggers.

I am afraid that there is little comfort that we can offer, at best the "list" requires the claimant to be seen by a doctor rather than a nurse or a physiotherapist, we know of numerous occasions where this has not happened. Even if a doctor is used, there is no requirement for them to have any experience with mental health issues beyond what is required of them to pass the Disability Assessment tests that the DWP require.

While there are things that can be done should the claimant need to appeal, there is a case law that seriously questions the validity of an assessment report produced by a physiotherapist for a claimant with primarily mental health issues for example, there is little that can be done before the Decision on the claim is made other than to provide as detailed an ESA50 as possible and to include whatever medical evidence is available, as this is the only way to avoid a face to face assessment being required.

To be clear, a doctor not being available for the assessment is not considered Good Cause for refusing to participate in the interview.

Gordon

gertrude2 wrote: theres a question in there somewhere! apart from the descriptors, how can claimants be sure ATOS will know how to assess them correctly given that most GPs and healthr professionals do not understand this condition.

specifically - claimant was placed in Support Group on appeal, dwp accepted reasons with Consultant evidence for non face to face assessment - and then started sending out new medical appointments but no new forms. Same evidence was then resent and same explanation but still receiving medical appointment letters, every month!

You need to ascertain whether you are being re-assessed or not.

I would start by contacting ATOS to find out what the medical appointments are for, if you are being assessed then you need to contact the DWP about the fact that you have not received an ESA50.

It is possible for the DWP to make a Decision on a re-assessment without the claimant being asked to complete an ESA50 or even attend a face to face, but it is unusual and it can often be to the detriment of the claimant.

Gordon