esa application

I applied for ESA around 18 months ago and it was decided to put me in the WRAG. I was content with that at the time although mine is a degenerative condition and the examining doctor stated, fairly, that a return to work was unlikely for 2 years. I have gone downhill and have thought for a while that I should try to get in the support group, particularly because at the end of the month my contribution based benefit will stop.

The local jobcentre plus suggested I send a 'letter of reconsideration' but I see on the Benefits and Work website that there is a low chance of success with these. It isn't an appeal as it is more than 6 months since my decision. Should I send a full blown ESA50?

A 'reconsideration' is done either as the first stage of an appeal or instead of one. As it is too late for this, you need to ask for a 'supersession'.

Thank you Mrs H.

I have looked up more about 'supersession' now. I am surprised that this seems to be unusual. It's as if those on ESA don't usually go worse, just get better or stay the same.

I guess that it hasn't happened much until recently. Many people in the WRAg would put up with a worstening of their condition, even if they thought they should be in the Support Group, as they were afraid of losing everything. However, with the time limiting of contributary ESA for those in the WRAG, I think this will happen more often as people have nothing to lose.