Any Experience with Applying for ESA? (UK)

Page 1 of 1 [ 4 posts ] 

misteroldpea
Emu Egg
Emu Egg

Joined: 17 Aug 2015
Posts: 2

17 Aug 2015, 5:04 am

Hi there, my nurse suggested applying for Employment and Support Allowance and I am wondering what comes within the pack you get through the post, at the moment I can find the actual booklet, the supplied envelope, but I was told there are more forms than just those two and I seem to have misplaced them.
I'm just wondering what these forms look like, so I can figure out what to look for, as I have a habit of just chucking things about without caring.

Also, any experiences of applying for those with Asperger's, or undergoing diagnosis?

Thank you, and sorry if this is in the wrong place as I am not well acquainted with this form. (Don't be afraid to correct my grammar or comma placement, I've never understood the correct placement etc.)



Tequila
Veteran
Veteran

Joined: 25 Feb 2006
Age: 36
Gender: Male
Posts: 28,897
Location: Lancashire, UK

17 Aug 2015, 5:06 am

One thing I would say is that the applying for it is an absolute minefield. My mother did my application for me, but the questions are designed to catch you out.

If I were you I would go to the Benefits and Work website and register/subscribe. It's a bit of money but well worth it. Give yourself a fighting chance.



misteroldpea
Emu Egg
Emu Egg

Joined: 17 Aug 2015
Posts: 2

17 Aug 2015, 5:37 am

My psych nurse said for me to bring it in and help me fill it out, lovely woman she is and not afraid to swear like a sailor. lol

And yes, one of my worries was the whole application process, I've heard about the ATOS thing... I have no problem with gaining employment, but it's just keeping a job that makes me feel a bit s**t.



steve30
Velociraptor
Velociraptor

User avatar

Joined: 16 Feb 2007
Age: 33
Gender: Male
Posts: 426
Location: Rotherham

27 Aug 2015, 9:42 am

Have you made any progress with the application?

The ESA1 form is the main application form which covers who you are, how much money you have etc. The ESA50 form comes later and is a medical questionnaire. I don't know if they have changed it since I last filled one in, but usually they are worded to try and catch you out.

Don't be surprised if you fail and have to appeal. It is always worth appealing to a tribunal if you fail. The Tribunals Service (usually) has common sense and they manage to apply the law correctly (unlike the Department for Work and Pensions).