Lcwra

Sev68

Hi
I'm on esa legacy benefits, Was sent a form and filled it out they received it 26/07 ,I still haven't heard anything back ,I'm Agoraphobic and petrified they will send me for a assessment which I can't go to,Do they always ask for a assessment? Is there a backlog ? Since receiving the form my anxiety is through the roof my mood is low and my hair is falling out in clumps ,I don't want to phone them because I find it difficult and get flustered and angry,Would appreciate any help.

Jimm_Alumni

Hi @Sev68, welcome to the scope online community! I understand the worry and anxiety around assessments. Especially when you're agoraphobic and the thought of leaving the house is difficult.

Many ESA assessments are now doing over the phone or video calls. Meaning you do not have to leave the house. 

You can also request a home assessment if you have difficultly or it is impossible for you to attend an assessment. Though they will need to be provided evidence (such as a letter from your GP) as to why you cannot attend a phone or video assessment.

You can also have someone be with you for support at your assessment. Do you have anyone who could help you contact ESA or can be with you during the assessment?

Citizen's Advice has a good information page about ESA assessments, see them here Preparing for your ESA medical assessment - Citizens Advice.

I'm also just going to move this into our ESA category, as there are people with more knowledge than me who can hopefully answer this as well

poppy123456

Jimm_Scope said:

You can also request a home assessment if you have difficultly or it is impossible for you to attend an assessment.

They no longer do home assessments and haven’t since 2020. Assessments are now mostly by telephone, some are still face to face or video. 

If an assessment is needed and it’s not by telephone then you can request a telephone assessment instead. 

Sev68

Hi I definitely do not want a home visit, I'm hoping when I call tomorrow they will change to a telephone call instead, The thought of a video assessment is terrifying, I can talk on phone as long as they have patience ,My Daughter will take the day off so she can be with me ,Thank you all as I honestly don't know how I would of coped without all your kindness. 

Sev68

Hi 
I called this morning took me 4 hrs to pluck up the courage, They changed it to a telephone assessment the lady was really kind and patient with me ! Thank you all again,Will let you know the outcome appointment is on 11th October. 

Rosie_Scope

Well done for getting through it, @Sev68! Fingers crossed for you, keep us posted