ESA Review

I have my interview tomorrow, and have to go to Job Centre plus. Have tried calling them over and over but just a voice message. I have every thing I think I need, bank statements, documents going back from when I was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis. Have been back to my GP because of the stress involved and I am having a very difficult time to stay from alcohol. Ashamed to say, but circumstances in life, have got me to this and I have been 'dry' for 3 years. I try very very hard and I know that drinking again will kill me. The after affects have left me depressed, no stamina, lack of strength etc etc. I do a small job, making tea and washing up at a cottage hospital, mainly to get me out and see people, but in no way can 5 hours a week keep my home.

In the past I have tried to end my life due to a very volatile and physically abusive marriage. At least I am free of that.

I shall let you know how I get on, some of you may decide I am not worth having help, but I have struggled and now I am proud of myself, but whatever happens in life, people get by. Sorry if I have gone over the top, but this helps, but probably the wrong site to say.

Hi Glen,

If you have been dry for 3 years then you have much to be proud of! I sincerely hope that you are able to get through this without losing your sobriety.

Yes please let us know how you get on, and remember, you are worth helping. As Mrs H says being dry for three years is something to be proud of. It's a great achievement indeed. Good luck! PP

Thanks Mrs Hurtyback and Porthole Pete. It was good to have the messages of encouragement. Well I got through it and alcohol was no where to be seen.

But saying that the meeting was horrendous. The chap conducting the appointment, I am sure, thought himself something out of the SAS. He wasn't aware of the DS1500 and even what it meant. He was almost rude and ignorant to good manners, but conducted himself just on the edge of acceptable where a complaint could of been made.

Where do these people come from with their huge egos and near bullish attitudes. There for the grace of God !!!

Having saying that, all was ok, and it was just to check I was getting what I should. So much stress and worry. Something ought to be done to save others going through this humiliating procedure and train DWP staff on manners and respect

Well done! Yes where do these folks come from indeed, and who/what spawned them is what I'd like to know!

Well done Glen. You've already proved how strong you can be by being dry for 3 years. You should be so proud of yourself, and DWP should be ashamed of how much stress and anxiety they pile onto people who are already vulnerable. A x