Attending an ESA Tribunal

I have just found out where my local tribunal centre is after having to provide my NI number and address. I want to familiarise myself with the layout and attend a hearing but wonder whether upon arrival I will be asked who I am, why I'm there, having to provide id etc and end up jeopardising my own case by attending and being recognised by the judge who is deciding my fate at some point in the near future.

My nearest tribunal centre is 20 miles away and I will have to take a taxi there. I never leave the house alone, so will have someone with me. I'm hoping that CAB will give me support in my case. I know I will be frail and very stressed, but I HAVE to go there and show them how my condition affects me. If I don't do this, I will be just dismissed. I'm not in a fit state to do this, but I have no choice.

If there are issues for you about being 'recognised' by the judge etc...then you need to seek advice from CAB or a solicitor.

Good luck

TCP

I was told that I could only attend the ESA tribunal if the person who's case was being heard agreed. Therefore it is not as clear cut as it sounds. It may mean I would have to hang around for quite some time until I found someone willing to allow me in!

Hi Josie, although I can empathise, already having had to attend a tribunal for ESA

I have to say I would be mortified if someone watched me. It is such a stressful and personal experience.

I know that, yes you are allowed, but ask yourself whether or not you would want a total stranger knowing intimate details about your mental and physical health problems.

Maybe some people wouldn't mind, but I would. Please don't be put off your own appeal because you can't see one before hand. In some ways, it could just make you stress about it more?

Best wishes,
Rachel

Sorry, Josie, I misunderstood your post. I suppose, you could check out a hearing etc. I know personally I wouldn't be able to visit the one where mine would be held as it is going to really take it out of me to attend my own let alone oversee the process. I have taken part in a courtroom-type hearing regarding the Planning Inspectorate, so know what it is like. It will in a sense be like a trial and we have to prove the validity of our health condition and how it effects our ability to work etc. Unfortunately this government thinks everyone on disability benefits is fit to work, has no life-long illnesses/disabilities and that hidden illnesses do not exist, so we must be lying. I am going to fight for my right to benefits. And if my health worsens any more, I am taking legal advice.

TCP