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IB to ESA

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10 years 9 months ago - 10 years 9 months ago #105406 by agaricus
IB to ESA was created by agaricus
Hello, can I first say a big thank you to all those responsible for this site, you are doing a worthy job and I wish I had come across you before I completed my ESA50 form. I have been on IB and DLA for 23 years as a result of a major road traffic accident. !5 years of re constructive cervical and lumabar spinal surgery, neuro-stimulators and an intrathecal morphine pump for pain control. The pump was great but I could not function cognitively, so had it removed 4 years ago. Result chronic crippling pain and immobility. I have spent over £10,000 in training and studying to become a homeopath, hoping I could support myself. Sadly my condition does not allow me to work.

In January I was sent the ESA50 and took my time completing it thinking that the DWP/ATOS would refer to my medical reports/records. I now realise I was wrong and the mistake I made was to put down 'varies' for my mobility and incontinence. Did not realise I needed a law degree....

Six weeks i was notified I had to attend an assessment at a local centre. When i checked it was on the second floor. Spoke to ATOS and told them that because of my spinal problems, if I had a spasm which occurred at least twice a week, I could not move and would become a liability. They agreed to reschedule it to another centre. I then received a letter asking me to attend a location which meant I would have to walk 1 mile to the underground, go to the mainline station then take an overground train to the town, then walk to the centre. I then called and explained that I can't even stand without crippling pain, let alone do this marathon. They said i would need a letter from my GP to say why i can't use public transport. My GP wrote a letter and is so angry at what is happening, but that's another story. I then called to see if they received the letter which they did. They then told me that they would pay for a cab. Two days later they called and said they have decided that I need a home visit, OK great I thought. Following week I receive another letter informing me they have agreed to pay for a taxi!! I called again and was told i should not have received the letter as they are scheduling a home visit. I told them that on two occasions now I have had to arrange and cancel having someone accompany me, and I am still not sure what's going on. They said they will reconfirm in writing that i will have a home visit. That was a week ago.....

I am sorry for this long winded explanation but it shows the incompetence of these people.
My questions are.

1. Is there a time frame for a home visit?
2. Is it just possible they have decided to write to my GP/reconsider my case?

Thank you all for your time and support. I have found the guides indispensable and will use them if they decide to find me fit for work.
Last edit: 10 years 9 months ago by Gordon.

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10 years 9 months ago #105414 by Gordon
Replied by Gordon on topic IB to ESA
agaricus

There is no specific timeframe associated with a home visit, although I would expect it to take longer than an assessment at an ATOS building due it being done with a more restricted resource, so I really cannot give you any idea of how long it might take to be arranged.

What often happens is that the doctor will contact you directly, as they appear to manage their own diaries to a considerable extent, this often results in the claimant receiving short notice of their intention to visit, you are entitled to 7 days notice, so if not convenient, do not be worried about pushing them back.

It is not impossible that they have also contacted your GP, but even if they do, it does not mean that they will decide that an assessment is not required.

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems

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10 years 9 months ago #105430 by agaricus
Replied by agaricus on topic IB to ESA
Thank you Gordon. I forgot to say that I am 62. When i asked my GP for a letter he said that he had not been contacted by DWP/ATOS regarding my disabilities. I will let you know what happens.

Agaricus

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