Electric wheelchair & ESA mobility descriptor

I have to agree with Gordon and Chrissy, the regs state quite clearly that it is a question of being able to mobilise for 50m by the use of a manualy propelled wheelchair.

In order for the HCP/DM to decide on this question they would consider the claimant's ability to use one or both there arms and although I am speculating here I do have the feeling they may cross refence information from the ESA50/ESA50A and any face to face assesment you may have had or not had, in order to make a decision on the claimant's functional ability regarding,use of either one or both of thier arms.

I think inorder to propel a manual wheelchair one would have to use both arms inorder to do this repeatedly,reliably and most important of all safely.

However, when it comes to Atos and DWP anything goes as long as they can find a loophole to find
one fit to work!!!!

Radhika.

Thanks Aladinsane and Radhika for your input. I feel much more confident now that I can pursue the possibility of the NHS electric wheelchair. The reason I may be able to get an electric one on the NHS is because I can't self-propel anyway, so that should support my case too.

I know exactly what you mean about the loopholes, Radhika - that's why I wanted to know what other people with DWP experience thought!

I've been quietly using the guides on here for a few years now, and found them excellent, and I'm glad I've come to the forum too. Thanks for the help.

Good wishes

PS Thanks too, Chrissy!

Like I said. Repeatedly, reliably and most important of all SAFELY.
I must say the above i learnt fron the ESA guide on this great site and what a great help the above three words are to ones claim!!!! Use them where ever you can on the form to fight you corner.

Good Luck.
Radhika.

Cheers, Radhika, I've made myself a specific note of that.