ESA face to face meet for anxiety/depression

Hi rrw,

I'm afraid I can't help you with this - I would not have expected a HB claim to be initiated at the same time as ESA as ESA is administered by DWP and the HB by the local authority.

It may be that some of our members will be able to suggest something . . .

Hello , I know it's easy said than done but try not to let this stress you out too much I'm due for reassessment of both pip and esa soon . My doctor is very supportive , which was a relief , if you have a real problem attending a f2f (as am I) I was given some advice that maybe a supportive statement added to ur gps letter that they think a paper based review will be appropriate as the stress and anxiety of a face to face would be detrimental to your mental health ? I hope you manage to get supporting evidence from your doctor . Do you see a cpn/support worker /psychiatrist ? X

I would explain that as it is done automatically during a telephone claim you shouldn't be discriminated against because your disability precludes you from making the claim in this way. As long as you weren't specifically told you needed to make the paper application for housing benefit at the same time this may help.

Good luck. x

Hi, you are not alone & it helps to remember this. I think that you should get a support worker (I have just done this for issues like yourself). You could look under your Council or Mind are amazing. You will then have someone to help with your forms, budgeting etc. Look after yourself.

sue wrote: Hi, you are not alone & it helps to remember this. I think that you should get a support worker (I have just done this for issues like yourself). You could look under your Council or Mind are amazing. You will then have someone to help with your forms, budgeting etc. Look after yourself.

Thank you Sue, and apologies for not seeing this earlier. I have contacted Mind to enquire about a support worker, that sounds like a great idea.

To add to my earlier question (if that's ok?) - I had never considered applying for PIP until someone mentioned I could be entitled to it. Is it too late to apply for this, or can this only be applied for if my assessment is accepted?

Thank you.