ESA work focused interview

Alison wrote: I've recently finished working after 30 odd years due to ongoing chronic disability. I receive income protection from my employers insurer. ive applied for NI based ESA as my income protection payment has been reduced by the amount of ESA. Today I have received a letter saying I have got to go to a work focused interview at my local job centre. Why? What is the point of this when I've just stopped working sue to ill health. Do I have to attend & what can I expect at the interview? Hope someone can help me, as I am worried about it.

Welcome to the forum, you might want to have a look at the following FAQ which explain where everything is

Welcome to Benefits and Work

This is a standard feature of the ESA assessment process, the appointment is mandatory and you benefit can be sanctioned if you do not comply.

If your attendance would present a problem to you due to the limitations that result from your conditions, then you should contact the JC+ advisor to see whether it can be held over the phone or deferred.

At this time JC+ know virtually nothing about your as they are prevented from seeing much of your computer record, they may not even know that you are still currently employed.

Gordon