ESA Support Group - Called into Job Centre Plus

Hi bro58,

Thanks. Maybe they are piloting some kind of intensive checking programme, mainly in and around the Midlands for now? I did read something in the DM about new face to face assessements and reviews which confused me as it seemed like it was referring to WCA without saying so...it was a DWP response to some article, can't recall details.
Can you keep us updated via the newsletter or news here as and when you learn more (I expect you're getting a lot of feedback which may see a pattern emerge)?
I have wondered if these reviews/ invitations are being sent out as a way of assessing people who they have not seen for a face to face WCA (due to the backlong) and checking/ keeping those in the SG from getting too comfortable! I can't recall if it was Heffy but in one post someone who got one of these letters said they were told by JC+ they were doing this to every one - how can they possibly?! I would have thought JC+ would be pretty overwhelmed with job seekers.

It is very worrying for those of us in the SG, as we are in it because of the physial/ mental health limitations we have. It's like a form of persecution for the sickest! That link you pasted here: the poor person now worried they are being looked at for fraud when they cannot go over the door step due to their condition!

I do not think I have had an ESA3. I am wondering they tend to be sent more to those on CB ESA? I'm on IR ESA, so I don't know...but I hope I don't get one as I really struggle with forms. The fact I don't think I've ever had one is making me dread one more. I fear being pressurised to attend JC+ for anything as my condition, fluctating as it does but invariably worsened by stress and anxiety, means face to face appts in crowded, usually over-heated places are usually impossible on the day, even with help from a good family friend who helps me out.
I am not even sure what PIP is etc. I have never applied for anything other than ESA (or it's equivalent before it was introduced) because I dread forms, assessments, face to face appts etc and avoid applying for anything else - the more benefits = the more potnetial for persscution as far as I can tell! I am worried that might create suspicion though (not applying for anything else I might be entitled to but I can't cope with it!) My mum, thankfully, and a good friend, are both very good and care wtihout complaint.

I know I sound paranoid (I am...increasingly so while IDS is around!) but when you post links here eg to the ESA3 form or other info (eg those performance (benefit check) visits) etc etc, do they send us straight to a government site/ link? I'm sometimes a bit reluctant to click...in case my visit is somehow recorded... I probably sound a bit too paranoid, sorry. I hope I'm not the only one who has become this paranoid...this government and its whole attitude to those who are legitimately ill or on benefits through not fault of their own makes you that way!

Thanks so much for all the advice you give here, bro58 (and others)

Thank you so much Gordon

That is incredibly helpful!
I'm not sure if I'd qualify for PIP. I am in the SG and although my condition fluctuates, at my worst I am extremely limited. However, the thought of more forms, more interviews etc just fills me with dread. I recall my doctor a while ago suggesting I apply (I think it was DLA then) and actually got as far as obtaining the form but I just couldn't face it! Mum is the same when it comes to forms and anything official-looking... We both fall to bits (and mum has a lot on her plate already besides my condition)! She is happy to care around her part-time job and I have a very good family friend who is really helpful too. I just wouldn't want the DWP to wonder why I'm not claiming something they would consider me eligible for.

I'm not surprised the DWP are not forthcoming about procedures but whatever you can provide is always helpful and I know you do the best you can.

Thanks! As I said to br58, who's also been very helpful, I suffer stress, anxiety too and am seemingly becoming increasingly paranoid, so it's helpful to get a bit of perspective!
Yes, I guess the ones that find thmselves here have seen and experienced the worst of the system!

Thanks again, Gordon.

Ps.... This new ESA50 evidence thing... Will you at any point be covering this in more detail? Eg I cannot provide up-to-date medical evidence come my next assessment and have wondered what the best approach may be. In my case, my condition was diagnosed ten years ago and while I saw specialists and had the whole gamut of tests then that led to diagnosis, and also had some therapies and treatments that failed to help, I have since then been under the care of my GP. Last time, they provided a letter and I was kept in the SG. Next time..who knows, since they seem constantly to be changing the rules/ shifting the goal posts at the DWP! I can ask my mum but, while she works, she falls to bits when she has to speak to anyone 'important' and, as I've said here before, I feel, because my condition fluctuates, she could be mnaipulated by some one unscrupulous into agreeing I can do more! That is always a concern for me...so I'm wondering where that leaves people like me

Many thanks, once again! I appreciate that you (and bro58) replied so quickly. I've said it before: this is a great resource and the people here are so helpful.

Hi Gordon, Thanks so much - I appreciate your replying, and the ino, which is reassuring

Following on from posting on this thread where I had been approached to attend a WFI which when I eventually was able to get them to say it was voluntary because I am in the support group, I was then sent an ESA3 form which I completed and sent off just after Christmas. I havent heard anything back as yet and wonder how long it will take to hear or even if I will if everything stays the same, although I am sure thats difficult for you to say. My money has continued to be paid so whilst I had been told that the interview was mandatory and my money would be stopped if I didnt attend the WFI, before finding out that wasnt the case. It has been ok. Can you advise on the ESA3 form time limit and if they will indeed reply. I dont expect to get any more money nor any less, my circumstances are unchanged. Thank you.