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ESA question 11 clarification

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8 years 8 months ago #166595 by depressedAspie
ESA question 11 clarification was created by depressedAspie
Hi, I'm new to the forum and the site. I am trying to help a friend out in completing his ESA 50 form. I'm slightly confused by question 11. It's complicated as due to his conditions he can not remember how to do tasks such as using a washing machine, cooking his own dinner, etc. But he's capable of driving. As an example, we had to post a written description for him on how to boil and egg so he could at least make himself a boiled egg sandwich. So I'm not certain how to answer this question for him.

Obviously driving is a series of tasks. But I know he's receiving additional care components for DLA (not been switched yet) based on the facts that he can't cook his own meals or take care of basic tasks around his home. This is due in part to his depression, memory issues he has, fatigue, and Autism. I'm worried if I just say "yes he can do *some* more complicated tasks (like playing a video game) they will then decide he is able to cook a meal and it will effect his DLA. So if anyone has a bit of guidance I'd appreciate it. Even though he can play video games and such, daily normal life tasks overwhelm him and he needs assistance to complete them or just have someone do them on his behalf.

Many thanks for help. :)

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8 years 8 months ago #166639 by Gordon
Replied by Gordon on topic ESA question 11 clarification
depressedAspie

Welcome to the forum, you might want to have a look at the following FAQ which explain where everything is

Welcome to Benefits and Work

This activity is about learning how to do a new task, so you can certainly argue that there being able to drive is something they learned some time ago and have retained the ability to do, but they would not be able to learn how to drive now.

I think that the argument will be somewhat weakened by the DM possibly taking the view that no two drives are the same and the claimant must learn to adapt to each drive as it happens, so I think you will have to deal with this issue in both the ESA50 and be prepared to cover it in the assessment.

Your example of boiling an egg is a good one to include on the form, remember you need to explain why they are having problems, the problems they have and what would happen if they did not have the instructions that you have left for them.

Have these problems been investigated by any of their medical support? I know it can be difficult when a symptom is perhaps the result of multiple conditions rather than one individually, but it would really help if their GP or a Consultant has commented on this problem.

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems

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