ESA Review

Hi, I have recently moved back to my home town because of my illness and to be closer to family and friends who would be able to give additional support if needed. Where I lived before I only had the one relative there and if they themselves were not well I would be in a difficult situation. I had notified the DWP and JC of the move. A week later I have now received a letter stating "We are reviewing your benefit claim come to your meeting to keep us up to date" I was placed in the support group approximately 3 years ago.

The letter asks me to take proof of ID, Bank Statements and any details of other investments (I wish). I cannot see that it makes mention of anything else only if I do not attend the benefit will stop.

My condition is very much ongoing and my Doctor, where I used to live, has provided a letter to say how my illness affects me of M.E. which I can take along if needed although this has not been requested. One paragraph in the letter states "When we meet you - When we meet you we will talk about any changes which might affect your benefits. We need to make sure that the information we have is correct."

Is there anything I need to be aware of or worried about. It does not seem as if it is voluntary. but more "I have to". I know on the day I will be near collapse as is always the case when I am put under stress and pressure. I used to work in the legal profession so it is a far cry from my days working around the clock and loving my job. Thank you so much for any advice you can give me. Kind regards

Thank you Gordon. I really appreciate it. I will give feedback later

I have today attended the ESA review also noted by JC+ as a Compliance Meeting. It turned out that it was to satisfy an issue of fraud which was due to my move and to clarify what capital/savings I have. With moving it could be seen that I had purchased a property and not informed them of the same or I had been left a property in a Will. I produced my Bank Statements and they asked me about the move and what my outlay was with regard to that move and this was checked against my Bank Statements. The lady I saw was very pleasant and was satisfied with the information I provided. Although I had taken proof of ID by way of a passport and driving licence the lady told me that the Bank Statements were acceptable as proof of ID with it bearing my address. I was also asked what benefits I was receiving to ascertain I was receiving all I was entitled to. The meeting took approximately 1 hour. Nothing to worry about if anyone else has to attend a Compliance Meeting. Thank you to this site for all the help, assistance and advice you give. You are a real life line to people suffering from various illnesses. Thank you.

Thank you Gordon