WRAG and Support Group

Having been on IB for 16 years I know nothing about these support groups which I keep finding reference to. Could someone please explain to me what happens. I have my assessment on Thursday and have no idea what to expect then or afterwards. I have been trailling through this site but cannot get my head around it.
Can you please explain the difference between the two groups and what happens to me if I do not get into either groups? The authorities have not given me any information all they said was that my benefit was changing from IB to ESA and they needed to check if I qualified.
Currently I am in a high state of anxiety which only triggers most of my health conditions. I will be 61 in June, am in no state to work but need the benefits and I am very worried.
Also during the assessment will they be asking me the same questions that I h ave already adequately answered on the form which I returned?

Hi Judith,

Entitlement to ESA is based entirely on meeting certain 'descriptors'. These carry a point value and the claimant needs at least 15 points to be awarded ESA. This will get the claimant put into the Work Related Activity Group (WRAG) and thus be obliged to undertake certain work related activites, such as interviews at the JobCenter, but not to seek or undertake paid work.


Qualifying for the WRAG

[url= Work Focussed Interviews ][/url]

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I will continue where I left off in a minute...

Someone in the WRAG might also be mandated to take part in the Work Program


Work Programme

People currently on IB will be migrated to contributary ESA. After 365 days in the WRAG this will cease and become income-related if the claimant qualifies, otherwise payment will stop.

There is another group of ESA called the Support Group. Entrance to this is not points related but based on meeting specific criteria


Qualifying for the Support Group

Claimants in the Support Group get a little more money, do not have to undertake Work Related Activity and time is not limited like it is in WRAG.

If you do not get into either group you can appeal.

If you have your assessment in a few days, you should familiarise yourself with this


ESA Medical – What to expect

Mrs Hurtyback

I have followed the reference you have given me for information on the medical but I cannot find anything that is appropriate. That is why I have just asked what do they ask me etc. etc.
It is absolutely crazy that 18months away from retirement pension that I am put through all of this. I have had nothing to do with a Job Centre for 30 + years. When the NHS dispensed with me in 1997 following 12 months off sick I have not had to send in sick notes just had assessments about 4 times in that time.

I am feeling a little disappointed because I thought that by subscribing I would be able to access relevant information but it is not proving so.

Hi J,

These links may also help :

IB, IS, SDA, Migration to ESA FAQ’s

ESA FAQ’s

ESA Claims Guides

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