ESA50 and additional evidence/paper based hearing

Hello,

I am a new member and, firstly, I would like to thank you for your website and for the extremely informative,rational guides to navigating and understanding the process of benefit claims. It's great that the website helps to even out the lawful process of applying...

The information has helped me greatly with my ESA50 form, which was completed and returned to the Assessor today along with relevant supporting medical evidence.

I am awaiting a letter from my GP (it will be ready this Wednesday) stating the need for a paper-based hearing only as a face to face will trigger my PTSD symptoms (and symptoms of other mental health illnesses) and worsen my condition by potentially re-traumatizing me. I'm also being supplied with further current evidence from other health professionals I see.

My questions are, firstly, who should I forward this documentation to? Secondly, is the GP's letter likely to ensure a paper-based assessment or can the Assessor/DWP ignore it?

Many thanks in advance.

Hello BIS,

Many thanks for your response.

I have my GP letter now and it specifically requests a paper-based hearing only so I'll ensure it is sent via recorded/signed for delivery to the address where the original form et al was sent, as per your advice, and hope for the best.

I'm aware that I am very fortunate to have a supportive GP who didn't charge me for the letter.

There really should be a national policy/standard regarding these matters. The current system is utterly unjust.

Many thanks again and best wishes.

OMEB