payment whilst waiting for WCA

I am hoping someone can clarify my understanding please?

I am working with someone who failed to attend a WCA in May 2017 (following the death of her father) A new claim was not made until August 2017. She is still waiting for a WCA and has not received any payments. Her current income is CB and CTC. Around £80/week

On contacting DWP complaints via her MP she was told to make a claim for JSA whilst awaiting the WCA - although she is in a UC full service area...and not fit to work
She is currently living on Child benefit and CTC for her one child. The case has been fast tracked, but she needs to specifically see a doctor and no indication of timescale can be given.

Her concerns are:
Losing her CTC and HB for the 5 week wait for UC.
Losing the potential backdate of benefit should she be awarded ESA.

Can anyone advise as to her best course of action please.

Many thanks

Beth

If the May 2017 claim was refused due to a failure to attend then they should be well past the six months restriction on payment of the Assessment rate and should be receiving this for their current claim.

I would check with the DWP why the ESA is not being paid before looking at alternatives.

Gordon