Advise about ESA

Hi anees292,
Unless you are seeking to 'upgrade' from work related activity group to support group, there is no need to inform DWP of a worsening condition. If you are already in the support group this is the maximum ESA amount so you won't receive any extra money, and it is likely that if you notify DWP of a worsening condition DWP will request another assessment!

However I think it is important to inform DWP when they conduct a review, make it absolutely clear that your health has deteriorated to ensure you continue to receive ESA.
Unlike PIP, ESA doesn't get renewed, there is no actual end date, but from time to time DWP will review and check that you are still eligible to receive ESA.
If you can, please obtain medical reports now or in the next weeks, then you will have everything ready for when your review comes early next year. If you can't get medical reports make sure you clearly explain your health including what has become worse and how the illness etc affects you. You can explain about eg pain, lack of movement etc and also explain you have been referred to a specialist.
I hope this helps.
Wishing you a Happy Christmas.
LL26

Hi anees292,
I don't see why a carer's letter wouldn't hurt. However the letter shoukd try and focus on difficulties relating to the ESA activities although a general paragraph won't hurt. The letter could also include whether there would be a substantial risk to your health if you were found able to work or do work related activities, (including interviews, getting to work) This could include things like pain, fatigue, stress confusion etc. Remember this could be a cumulative effect.
If you are already in support group I don't think you need to report any change to your health but do include it on your review form.
Once again I hope this helps.
Thank you for your kind words in your previous post.
LL26