ESA50 Going Out

MSCarer wrote: Is the question about “Going out” in part 2 of ESA50 mainly about “mental, cognitive and intellectual functions” or can it be expanded to include physical problems that also have an impact mentally, for example, if you have mobility problems and can lose balance then this makes you “anxious” – which has an impact on your ability to go out?

Due to the changes that came into effect from 28/01/13, you will only score points for this question based on a Mental Health issue, any issues that are the result of a physical condition will not be taken into account.

Gordon

MSCarer wrote: MS as a neurological disease is well documented as having physical and mental symptoms. Where does it stand regarding this?

There is no definitve document that the DWP use that defines an illness as physical, mental or both, all that claimants can do is to complete the ESA50 in as much detail as they can and if they have concerns as to how their conditions might be viewed, cite appropriate references where necessary.

However, in the context of your original question, I would still not expect you to score points for the Going Out question , as the underlying problem you are referring has a physical cause.

Gordon

MSCarer wrote: Okay - so I am looking at things like "concentration" problems that make it dangerous crossing a road and poor proprioception making multitasking and coordination of limbs and thought problematic?

It is worth a try, the worst they can do is not give you any points.

Gordon