HELP !!! ESA claim

steve5000

Hi There, I have just had a phone call to tell me my claim for E.S.A  has stopped due to me failinf the capability for work assessment (Medical), as apparantley I scored none of hte required 15 points!!
Can someone tell me whether all the questions i answered particularly  the mobility question, have to be answered not taking into account any medication I am taking.
I.E at the assessment I was asked about walking distances and I answered  based on the fact that I am taking daily pain relief- prescribed Oramorph and Tramadol and mefenamic acid with cocodamol/paracetomal/ibuprofen thrown in for good measure. So yes at times I am more capable of walking than others depending on pain control,
I am beginning to think i should have answered all questions based on having no pain control,would that be correct
Many thanks
Steve

Dotty123

No one got points out of 12000 peaple  I’ve no use in hands but got no points you’ll need to get mandatory reconsideration then tribunal 

poppy123456

Hi,

For the mobilising descriptor they take into consideration your ability to use a self propel wheelchair as well.

The MR is your next step and you have 1 month from the date of the decision to request this. I'd advise you to contact an advice centre near you for help and advice.

steve5000

Thanks for replies, but still not sure as to whether my answer to the mobility descriptor should have been answered as if it applies when I am not on any pain control .I.e suffering great debilitating pain. Thanks

poppy123456

It doesn't matter here because they will still take into consideration your ability to self propel a wheel for the mobilising descriptor. For the Support Group it must also apply to majority of the time. It's not about scoring points. 15 points are needed for the WRAG.

https://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/employment-and-support-allowance/esa-glossary/1353-support-group-descriptors

https://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/employment-and-support-allowance/esa-glossary/1354-work-related-activity-group-descriptors

steve5000

I was told on the phone today, that I had scored zero points and I required 15 points to continue to be paid basic ESA, let alone get involved with any support group.

Dotty123

No one got points you now have do mandatory reconsideration you get no money till or if you go to tribunal 

steve5000

OK I get that bit now,,but I would still like to know,as I am sure .others are in the same boat.Presume I am just about to have my assessment, would I answer the questions based upon my abilities as they used to be I.e without taking any pain control.
Thanks
Steve

poppy123456

You would answer the questions by telling them how your conditions affect you.

The WRAG descriptor for mobilising also takes into consideration your ability to use a self propel wheelchair.

poppy123456

If you taken medication and it helps then that's how you would answer the questions. If you answered the questions if you didn't take your medication then that wouldn't be telling the truth.

steve5000

I agree, but I font want to be taking pain relief for the rest of my life, I have a chronic leg wound for a year now, but when healed(hopefully) I do have a job to return to(hopefully-i have not heard different anyway). So I still don't think any mobility questions should be based on the fact you may be more mobile on  pain relief medication, because that would probably apply to a lot of people, and pain relief should not be the norm.
Steve

CockneyRebel

The assessment takes into consideration how you are on that day. If you are taking pain killers then that will be how you are assessed. Unfortunately pain relief is the norm for many people and they still cannot walk or self propel a wheel chair

steve5000

I certainly appreciate your comments,I just needed some clarity
Thanks