Studying full time on New style ESA&PiP

Ragerroo02

Hi, plan on notifying the DWP on my starting uni in September.

I'm in the support group and receive pip and to my understanding I'm able to study and retain my LCWRA status and my pip won't be affected.

I'm aware since I'm only on non means tested benefits the maintenance loan won't affect them, however I am scared they're going to reassess me.

I had a word with my local welfare rights team and they said everything I'm doing is legal as long as I tell them as we believe it keeps in line with my claim.

I have an extensive DSA support plan in place too so I'm actually able to study to which I plan on using as evidence if the DWP ask questions.

My question is, has anyone in a similar situation studied full time on non means tested benefits and managed to retain them without much of a fight?

flour

Hello @Rageroo02

Exciting to be going to university - well done!

You don't have LCWRA status in New Style ESA - it is called being placed in the support group. LCWRA exists in Universal Credit.

Student status does affect Universal Credit. Student status does not affect New Style ESA. Student status does not affect PIP.

If a re-assessment of any benefit were to happen - in relation to your health it may be around whether the reasons for becoming a student conflict with the reasons you were awarded a benefit.

For example, if part of the reason you were awarded PIP is because you cannot engage with other people face to face and then are attending a face to face course in a classroom which involves discussion with other students, it may lead to PIP thinking you've improved.

You can of course, explain to the DWP in advance of any arrangements which might be made, in the above situation for example the university may make adjustments so you don't have to take part in group discussion due to disability.