Lost and Bewidered

Has anyone had anything similar to my problem re: ESA?
I have physical and mental health problems, have been on IB since September 2005, and after a battle I won in 2007 I have received IIDB since.
My problems have got significantly worse since 2005.
I receive DLA at higher rate mobility and middle rate care. All of which I have seen DWP doctors over the last 12 months. The last DWP doctor I saw was in November 2012 for IIDB which resulted in his recommendation of increasing the level of injury from 40% to 45% because of my deteriorating health.
I also receive SDS from the local council because my health problems don’t allow me to do things around the house and quite often I am confined to bed.
I take 12 different types of medication, 38 tablets each and every day.
Apart from my mental health problems my DLA (mobility) was awarded because I cannot walk at all without pain and discomfort. I walk with 1 crutch as there is little feeling and no strength in my left arm and hand, which makes it impossible for me to use 2, or a manual wheelchair without assistance.
I received the questionnaire from the ESA in the summer and it was filled in by my Mental Health Support Worker, who comes to see me every week, because I couldn’t understand the questioning properly and am not able to write clearly.
Sent this back and received notice I was to be placed in WRAG. Without a medical. Totally confused by this my SW and I appealed and asked for re-consideration. Meanwhile I attended a meeting at the jobcentre with my “personal adviser”. She was shocked that I was in WRAG but told me that she was certain the reconsideration would place me in the Support Group where she, and my SW believed I belong.
I received notice back that they would not change their decision (again no medical) and gave me notice to appeal at a tribunal. As far as the decision maker and the nurse (yes nurse, not doctor) that looked at my case were concerned I would be fit for consideration for work within 18 months without ever seeing me!! DLA doctors and the doctor for the IIDB say I am getting worse, yet the DM and nurse for ESA do not bother looking at previous DWP decisions located on computer. Is this right??? How can they make these decisions without even seeing you?
I HAVE NEVER SEEN A DOCTOR, OR BEEN FOR A MEDICAL IN REGARDS TO ESA!!!
So, as it is, I have an appeal tribunal pending, for which he waiting time in my area is 16 weeks, and Saturday I received notice that my 365 day contribution based ESA is up on July 23rd and do I want to appeal!!
I’m at my wits end, and rather than my health getting better, which it never will, so that I can go back to work in 18 months, it’s getting much worse!!
Sorry it’s such a long-winded effort here, but I am new to the site and forum and I needed to give some background to see if there’s anyone else in the same ESA predicament, or anyone with advice.
Alan

Thanks for getting back to me Gordon.

I have downloaded a lot of the links, and i will be going through them over the next couple of weeks.
My doctor, on the ESA report, states that i have difficulty moving, and also about "coping with changes or social engagments", but it would seem a nurse knows better!!

As far as the WFI are concerned i have no problem, my SW comes with me, i just wish to goodness they would line up a medical so they could see me!!

I spoke to someone at the JC+ this morning and they told me i would have to apply to go onto Income Related as they wouldn't just "move". If i had any hair on my head i would be pulling it out by now

I didn't know about this site, but i am so glad i found it, and all the advice that is here.
Many thanks

I've only been a member since Sunday and i'm beginning to think this is the best £20 i have ever spent

Alan

I am glad you have found the site, it is a excellent site with really good guides.
When you have time look at FAQ on the left hade side of the site under News and Forum and find information about contacting your local MP or ask your support worker to contact them on your behalf. I feel they should be involved with your case.
Best of luck Alan