PIP Review

Hi Ben

It sounds as if you could be called to have an assessment, but there's no certainty which type. If they don't offer you a telephone assessment and they offer you a face-to-face assessment, you can appeal the decision, explaining why that would be too much for you. If they come back and say that it is still a face-to-face assessment - you can appeal a second time and ask them to review their decision. Most members here who have asked them to change face-to-face assessments to telephone assessments have been successful.

BIS

Hi Ben

We are receiving mixed messages across the regions about delays and deferments.

Remember, ESA is an indefinite award with scheduled reassessment based on the Prognosis Date completed by the assessor in their report, so your existing ESA award continues in payment until a new Decision is made.

You do not say which type of ESA you are receiving, there are 3 types, two of which are legacy benefits or if you received any premiums.

If your ESA stops you will need to apply for UC if you need financial help, but once you apply for UC you cannot go back on to legacy benefits.

In the past I have helped claimants appeal ESA decisions, the claimants lived on their PIP whilst waiting for the appeal and also kept their housing benefit.

Most assessment are done over the phone but not all.

I would advise you to seek help from your local Welfare Rights Organisation; advicelocal.uk

Gary

Ben

If you appeal a Fit for Work Decision then you can receive the ESA assessment rate until your appeal is heard. this does not apply to the time taken for an MR. There are restrictions but as long as this is your first FfW Decision then you are OK.

Gordon