Esa support group and student loans

chant1lly

Hiya everyone I am new to the boards and wondering if anyone can point me in the right direction regarding study and esa support group. 

I was planning to start my level 4/5 in counselling this year. I chose the option for part time study.

I am extremely worried about how this will affect my esa, and I can't seem to find any information that is helpful. 

I spoke to a benefits advisory service and the lady there just told me she wasnt sure and that if she were me to go very careful as it could mess up my housing benefit and esa.

I really am trying to get myself in a position to be able to work again and taking this course would help me on my way to that.

At the same time I'm not in a position at the moment where I could manage if it messes everything up financially.

Does anyone know if taking the foundation degree and student loans will trigger reassessment please

poppy123456

If the course is classed as part time then your ESA will continue. If it's full time then you must be claiming a qualifying disability benefit such as PIP/DLA or ADP, otherwise Income Related ESA will stop.

Whether the course part or full time, if there's a student maintenance loan available to you then it will affect means tested benefits such as Income Related ESA and housing benefit, even if you decide not to take that loan.

If the course contradicts the reasons why you're claiming ESA then it could go against you when you're next reassessed.

chant1lly

Thank you for your speedy reply, I'm currently awaiting a pip assessment so everything there is still a little unsure. I had pretty much decided to wait until next year to do the course and give myself a little more time health wise, as i was worried it could impact me negatively but i was still doubting if i was making the right decision. I think reading what you have said about applying for the loan and  it affecing me even if I decide against taking it has helped me to make a choice. thank you