How fast is the ESA cancer “fast track”?

I received an ESA Application in March (just as radiotherapy was starting!) and returned it in time. As the due date was a little close for comfort, I sent, on the advice of the CAB who largely completed the form for me, p24 (the “she has cancer” signed by the GP), the following day – although I had referenced the cancer + the long list of drugs within the main form.

Since my mouth operation was for quite aggressive mouth cancer, I can’t speak and am currently deaf, the CAB have kindly dealt with the DWP on my behalf but sadly, perhaps predictably, have not been successful. The responses have been “very busy, wait 2 weeks before chasing up” “can’t find the form” (copy sent by email), “very shortly”; 2 – 2 weeks".

The most recent response: “file has been reviewed by a Healthcare Professional today and we have now been able to provide advise (sic) to DWP with regards to her claim and “file will now be returned to a DWP Decision Marker who will be in contact with regards to the claim for ESA.”

Is this sort of delay usual? I am especially worried as I will shortly have to have revision surgery as well as continuing treatments, tests etc .and don’t know where/when I will be during the next few months.

Hi Gary

Huge Relief, DWP tel this morning and said that I'd been placed in the Support Group - which I've been in for 8 years due to a number of (non-cancer) issues, none of which are likely to go away, no matter what the DWP might Ihink!

I'm to remain in the Support Group for 2 Years which, given my (3rd) DLA/PIP award, a year ago was for 10 but I'm just so happy to have it so deep breath for then. I suppose they're thinking along the lines of either the cancer will have gone by then or I will but that's just being cynical !?

As always, thank you so much DWP, I truly could not have done any of this, 2 PIP Applications, Mandatory Reonsiderations and one Tribunal + 2 ESA Applications without your help. You are all truly life savers!!!!