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ESA Support Group (change in circumstances)

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6 years 1 month ago #227468 by Sdoxuk
I had a medical for ESA last year and was placed in the support group for depression and anxiety. To my complete surprise I’ve found I’m pregnant (still very early). I’m in receipt of PIP with high rate for standard care and low for mobility.
I was wondering if I could get any advice about what to do and how my benefits would be affected. I would be bringing up the baby as a lone parent. When do I need to inform the ESA department. I’ve read you need to let them know 11 weeks before your due date? I’m also unsure whether I would be moved to income support or I would need to apply for universal credit. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thank you.

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6 years 1 month ago #227481 by Gordon
Replied by Gordon on topic ESA Support Group (change in circumstances)
SD

If the reasons that you currently receive ESA and PIP remain unchanged then there is no reason why you cannot continue to receive the benefits during and after your pregnancy.

If your limitations have/do improve then you need to contact the DWP and this may result in your awards being reviewed.

You also need to consider, whether looking after your baby will contradict your award and even if it does not you may be asked to explain how you cope.

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
The following user(s) said Thank You: Sdoxuk

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6 years 1 month ago #227490 by Sdoxuk
Replied by Sdoxuk on topic ESA Support Group (change in circumstances)
Well it’s hard to know how things will affect me. I do feel the added stress and responsibility maybe overwhelming. I’m looking at organising low cost counselling to have something in place. This was something I had intended to do even before. I’m just wondering at what point you need to inform the departments concerned. Do you think my benefits may change to income support or universal credit? Thank you Gordon for your previous reply.

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6 years 1 month ago #227500 by Gordon
Replied by Gordon on topic ESA Support Group (change in circumstances)
SD

The only reason you would need to claim another benefit would be if you no longer meet the criteria for an ESA award.

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
The following user(s) said Thank You: Sdoxuk

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6 years 1 month ago #227607 by Sdoxuk
Replied by Sdoxuk on topic ESA Support Group (change in circumstances)
Thank you Gordon.

Being pregnant would count as a change of circumstances in one way, even if the reason for the award still persists? Am I understanding that correctly.

Am I likely to face another medical whilst being pregnant?

Thank you

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6 years 1 month ago #227621 by Gordon
Replied by Gordon on topic ESA Support Group (change in circumstances)
SD

Yes, that would be correct.

The DWP may decide that a new assessment is not required during your pregnancy, it is more likely that you will be reassessed after you have given birth.

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems

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