ESA and Fibromyalgia CFS-

Okay Anne. Best of luck.

Hi Cinders

I have ME/CFS and manage to do a few hours voluntary work each week.

The ESA50 doesn't ask about work as far as I remember, and no reason for you to mention it that I can think of. However, at my ATOS medical, one of the questions was "When did you last work?" and I imagine this is a standard question.

I asked the ATOS nurse whether this would include doing a few hours voluntary work and she said yes. She asked quite a few questions about how long I work at a given time, whether sitting standing, etc.

So you need to be ready to explain what you do, and how you manage to fit it in around the obstacles imposed by your illness.

Andy.

Hi Anne
I too have Fibro/CFS, and am in the process of completing my ESA Questionnaire.
I'm struggling on how to convey to them what a 'typical day' is like when there's nothing typical about this condition! My symptoms can vary from hour to hour even! Any pointers please?
Best wishes
Twinkle

Hi Twinkle,

I would say that you would have to convey just how much activity (repeated) affects you and has a detremental effect on your physical health, and maybe in turn on your mental health.

It may be a good idea to explain that you may be able to do something once or for a short while but then go on to explain just how long it takes you to relieve the pain the certain activity causes, and what you have to do to relieve the pain.

Also, try and explain how "demands" affect you ie when you find yourself under pressure to do something, can you commit, and carryout activities efficiently, do you need help to start or finish an activity, do you have to break away from doing things and go back to it later.

I think with FMS/CFS being fluctuating and variable you really have to concentrate on explaining in a lot of detail and a dairy record for a couple of weeks could help you with this.

Kathy x

Hi Kathy1

Thank you so much for your advice, I have been takling the form bit by bit over the weekend as my energy levels allowed. Can't wait until i've finished it as it's causing me a huge amount of stress and worry.Just what the doctor ordered!
Take care
Twinkle