ESA claim renewal awarded without assessment

Just to let you know that my husband has been awarded a further period in the support group without having to go for an assessment. Am overjoyed (it's been so stressful) and very grateful to the excellent advice contained in the guides here on Benefits and Work.

A word of advice though - do allow yourself enough time. It takes time to gather information (and supporting evidence) and the entire process can be absolutely harrowing as it forces you to relive the reality of daily life (most of the time I try to pretend that isn't happening.)
Keep copies.
Send by recorded delivery.
Don't make the mistake of thinking that the tiny boxes they give you are the limit - I wrote a LOT of extra stuff for each section.

Finally one slightly more sobering thought - why do people complain about the forms but not accept the help that's on offer? I've always recommended this site to anyone I know who has DWP forms to complete or assessments to attend. It's all too easy to sell yourself short and not present the true picture.

Often the forms themselves are horribly misleading and you have to be aware of that. I know I couldn't have done my husband's form without using the Guides.

Unfortunately, some of the people who could most benefit from this help simply won't use it. I've lost count of the number of times people write just a few words and say 'They'll know what I mean....' because it doesn't work that way.

Magwitch wrote:

Just to let you know that my husband has been awarded a further period in the support group without having to go for an assessment. Am overjoyed (it's been so stressful) and very grateful to the excellent advice contained in the guides here on Benefits and Work.

A word of advice though - do allow yourself enough time. It takes time to gather information (and supporting evidence) and the entire process can be absolutely harrowing as it forces you to relive the reality of daily life (most of the time I try to pretend that isn't happening.)
Keep copies.
Send by recorded delivery.
Don't make the mistake of thinking that the tiny boxes they give you are the limit - I wrote a LOT of extra stuff for each section.

Finally one slightly more sobering thought - why do people complain about the forms but not accept the help that's on offer? I've always recommended this site to anyone I know who has DWP forms to complete or assessments to attend. It's all too easy to sell yourself short and not present the true picture.

Often the forms themselves are horribly misleading and you have to be aware of that. I know I couldn't have done my husband's form without using the Guides.

Unfortunately, some of the people who could most benefit from this help simply won't use it. I've lost count of the number of times people write just a few words and say 'They'll know what I mean....' because it doesn't work that way.

Hi M,

That is really good news !!!

Thank you for letting us know, and for your complimentry comments regarding B&W.

Your comments regarding our guides, are spot on.

My best advice to anyone would be to read through our claim guides thoroughly, and even the WCA Hand Book, and then, ask questions on the forum if there is something that they don't understand. Unfortunately some members make a bee-line straight to the forum.

Allthough it may seem a lot to read, it will pay dividends in the long run.

Obviously, I do understand that some members may have limitations as a result certain health issues which may restrict them, and we will always endeavour to help all members as much as we can.

Have a relaxing XMAS.

bro58

That is very good news. Thank you for letting us know - and for your kind words about this site