A couple of SAR queries

I have been trying to get info from DWP, and sent SAR early September. I know they received the SAR because I attached it to my appeal request which they acknowledged on 7th Sept. No response to SAR, so I sent a reminder last week. Received a letter from them today, saying they will respond by mid November, which according to them will be 40 days from receipt of request. The same office, but different dept is demanding evidence to support my appeal, but as I don't yet know what it is they want me to prove until they give me details of evidence they used I am a bit stuck. A call to ICO advised that I could make an official complaint, but that would take longer than waiting til mid Nov. if I don't get the info I need I think DWP will go ahead with the reconsideration and will once again make an unfavourable decision. I don't have time to wait as having major surgery in a few weeks and will be unable to deal with correspondence for several weeks. Any suggestions as to how I can hurry DWP up?

Also, I am about to access my GP records. GP has been very accommodating, but is charging me £20 for access and 50p per sheet for copying. In addition, I have asked for access to the PCT wheelchair service records, and hospital records which are separate to my GP records. Should I be expected to pay a separate fee to each of these health service records? It is getting a bit expensive.

Thanks
PC

Thank you, Gordon

I had seen the section about charging for medical records, but was confused because GP is asking for £20 plus copying costs, and although its the same health authority it looks as though I have to pay hospital and wheelchair service too. Should I challenge them? I don't want to alienate GP who has been the only one offering support.

PC

Thank you, Gordon.

As always, very reassuring. Sorry my anxiety often means I lack the common sense I always find here from the moderators.

Much appreciated.

PC.