ESA second 'limited capability for work' booklet

Please can you advise - my son has suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome for the past 2/3 years - he is 31 and still living at home due to his problems. He was one of the first batch of ESA claimants in 2008. He had his application refused in July 2009 - took them that long to get round to decision - we appealed and won the appeal in January 2010. He now has a second form to complete by end of August - presume they are re-evaluating his claim? Any tips or advice would be appreciated - very stressful for him which doesn't help the condition. Many thanks

If his condition hasn't changed I would get a letter of support from his GP or specialist stating that. Did anyone help you with the appeal last time, if so get there help again. My husband has his his Appeal proceedings next month so we know what you are going through. Good luck.

Hi hazel,

All I can suggest is that you use our ESA guides to help complete the ESA50 questionnaire with your son. Because it's CFS which affects both physical activities and things like concentration, it would be worth using both the physical health guide and the mental health one.

Good luck,

Steve

Thanks for you prompt reply - will keep you posted

Thanks - will see what I can do - very difficult to describe the symptoms but will certainly be more aware of the pitfalls this time round

Hi Hazel

When your son was first awarded his ESA in Jan 2010 did they state when he would be up for review? Its strange about your long battle for ESA as i was also fighting for mine during that same perion and was awarded my ESA in Jan 2010!!! I think it was so new, i contacted CAB and they were still unsure on the length of time it would take and were themselved trying to pick through all the new rules but were very helpful and got my decision overturned. Now that people are more familiar with this new benefit it seems to be much quicker in getting a decision. My heart goes out to both you and your son as i know how stressful this whole thing is. Please keep us informed and i really wish you well.

Kind regards
Julie