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student, moved from support group to WRAG
- brenda
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6 years 5 months ago #200914 by brenda
student, moved from support group to WRAG was created by brenda
My son has been on PIP and ESA support group for 2 years due to severe anxiety and depression. He has now begun a University course, where he has managed pretty well to get to lectures, and has specialist mentor support.The Uni is near our home and he spends several nights a week at home. He had to move into a studio flat out of shared accommodation due to anxiety, and does not leave his flat except to attend lectures.
Understandably he was called for a medical review, at which we presented evidence of his continued anxiety and depression, including psychiatric reports and evidence of the support he needs at Uni. The result was that he has been awarded ESA but has been moved into the WRAG group.
We are worried that this might mean he is expected to take part in work related activity ie visit the job centre, go to interviews etc, which he is not able to do, not only because he is at Uni, but he still does not have the mental resilience to be able to work.
Does this also affect his housing benefit or have implications for his PIP?
Should he appeal to go back in the support group?
thanks
Understandably he was called for a medical review, at which we presented evidence of his continued anxiety and depression, including psychiatric reports and evidence of the support he needs at Uni. The result was that he has been awarded ESA but has been moved into the WRAG group.
We are worried that this might mean he is expected to take part in work related activity ie visit the job centre, go to interviews etc, which he is not able to do, not only because he is at Uni, but he still does not have the mental resilience to be able to work.
Does this also affect his housing benefit or have implications for his PIP?
Should he appeal to go back in the support group?
thanks
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- Gordon
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6 years 5 months ago #200944 by Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
Replied by Gordon on topic student, moved from support group to WRAG
Brenda
I'm afraid I can't see anything in the ESA Regulations that exempts your son from Work Related Activity because they are a student, however, JC+ advisors should take their student commitments into account when looking the WRA that he can do. There should be Disability advisor at his college or university who may be able to provide more information.
I would not expect the move to have any impact on his HB or PIP. If he has a Council Tax reduction then this may be effected, his Local Authority will contact him if there is a change.
Gordon
I'm afraid I can't see anything in the ESA Regulations that exempts your son from Work Related Activity because they are a student, however, JC+ advisors should take their student commitments into account when looking the WRA that he can do. There should be Disability advisor at his college or university who may be able to provide more information.
I would not expect the move to have any impact on his HB or PIP. If he has a Council Tax reduction then this may be effected, his Local Authority will contact him if there is a change.
Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
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