Work related group

Pompom wrote: I have been in the work related group since last August. However, my condition has worsened and I really don't know how I'm going to cope with going out to work (if anyone will take me on) I have a claustrophobic and Depressive condition as well as worn discs in my neck that effects my arm and hand with severe pain and numbness. Can I contest now(Ive been really depressed and even suicidal) but as time is ticking on I'm really fearful. Thanks.

You have two options, but in either of the cases you will need to show that you meet one or more of the Support Group criteria, see

Qualifying for the Support Group

You can appeal last August's Decision, however, they can only consider your condition as it was at that time, any deterioration you have had since then it outside of the scope of what they can look at.

You can ask to be re-assessed as a result of a deterioration of your condition, the burden of proof will lie with you, so you will need to collect any and all medical evidence to support your case, and this evidence must be new as they will only be looking at your condition since August 2011.

Finally, if you ask to be re-assessed then this will be done uner the new Descriptors and Regulations, whereas an Appeal will be done under the old ones.

In either case you need to be aware of the following

Is there any risk to challenging a decision?

To Appeal

How to submit an appeal

To ask to be re-assessed, you need to write to the DWP asking them to re-assess your claim because of deterioration in your condition, such that you now believe you meet the requirements for the Support Group.

Please refer to the ESA Claim guides in the Member only area for more details and if you have questions on the above, please reply to this post.

Gordon