LCW MR - Should I do this over the phone or by tracked letter?

rsx

I've just received my decision and it's lcw, I'm devastated and panicking. I'm going to send a MR but it also says it can be done by phone, would this be quicker or should I do it by sending a letter? Should I send the letter tracked? I haven't left the house in 6 years and can't talk to anyone but my grandparents or brother, I have panic attacks leading up to any uc phonecall I have so if I get kept in this category I will have to stop claiming uc as I just can't cope with it anymore.

calcotti

Much better to put MR in writing so you can say exactly what you want and have a record of it. There is no need to send tracked but get proof of posting.

rsx

Ok thank you, I thought that, I am much better doing it in writing as I panic on the phone and can't explain myself which I think I have been put in the wrong group 

Cher_Alumni

Hi @rsx 

I'm sorry to hear the decision isn't what you expected.  How's your mental health at the minute?  Are you receiving enough support with managing those panic attacks? 

Here's a Citizens Advice webpage about 'Challenging a UC decision: mandatory reconsideration' that will give you some other pointers on what to think about when completing your MR.  

Just to let you know, I also amended the title of your thread to help others spot what is was about and reply.  Good luck and please keep us posted with how you get on. 

rsx

@Username_removed thank you I will do.

@Cher_Scope hi, my mental health is the worst its been, I think I'm just exhausted with everything, I struggle with talking on the phone so haven't contacted my doctor, I am on the waiting list for cbt so hopefully that I'll help when I get the appointment.

Cher_Alumni

@rsx Ahh, I'm sorry, it can feel like a bit of a battle can't it?  It's good that you're on the waiting list for CBT.  I hope it's not too long until you hear something back.  

Some of our other members struggle talking on the phone to their doctor so I can appreciate where you're coming from and the anxiety it causes.  I wonder, would your brother or grandparents be able to sit in with you for support and perhaps talk on your behalf during the call?  I know it's not easy but perhaps that's something to consider.

MIND have this 'self-care for anxiety' resource too which contains lots of ideas for ways to reduce anxiety at home, so maybe give it a read and see if there's anything you could try.  

Take care and if you ever need virtual support, please give us a visit.  

rsx

@Cher_Scope @calcotti hi I'm just wondering if you knew how long I should leave it until I ring and see if they've got my Mr, I sent it Wednesday last week