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ESA50 help

ElsieC1

I am filling out the ESA50 which has a lot of tick boxes. Can you leave boxes unticked if none apply. ?

I am unable to move 20 metres before significant discomfort hits. Should I leave the 50m, 100m, 200m, It varies boxes unticked and explain why in the more information box. I am pushed in an attendant wheelchair most of the time as I cannot use my upper limbs for propelling.

Also why is the form so small ?! Seems not much bigger than A5.

Thank you

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Comments

calcotti

You can attach extra pages because, as you say, the space on the form is too small. Make sure ay extra pages have your name and N number on them and make clear which question the extra information relates to. I always write all the text answers on extra information and just write "see attached pages"in the boxes on the form.

I think in the circumstances it is OK to leave all of those tick boxes blank and start you reply "I have left all of the boxes unticked because I cannot do even 50 m to the required standard. I can only walk about 20 metres until ....." I need to explain what happens, where the pain is and how it prevents you walking on etc.

poppy123456

Also be aware that the mobilising part isn't just about walking, they also take into consideration your ability to use a self propelled wheelchair.

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

ElsieC1

Thank you for your help.The PIP form was so much larger.

Am I right that it is not necessary to say I am in receipt of PIP as they do not cross reference anyway ?

ElsieC1

I cannot self-propel as I have an upper limb disability. I have an OT report for that.

poppy123456

PIP and ESA are 2 completely different benefits, with different criteria. Claiming one doesn't automatically entitle you to the other. Though there's no harm in mentioning your PIP award.

Although you have evidence about your upper limb disability you also need to mention that within the form and give more details about how it affects you.

ElsieC1

Thank you for your input - you are very knowledgable.

Do all ESA claimants have to go to an assessment centre. What are the chances of a home visit given my mobility issue and the hassle of travel - transit chair etc ?

calcotti

Most assessments are currently done by phone.

Poppy, thanks for picking up on wheelchair.

poppy123456

ElsieC1 said:

Do all ESA claimants have to go to an assessment centre. What are the chances of a home visit given my mobility issue and the hassle of travel - transit chair etc ?

Your chances of the home visit are zero because they no longer do these and haven't since the start of the pandemic. Assessments are now done through either telephone, video call or face to face at an assessment centre.

ElsieC1

OK - I hope it is by phone.

Thanks again - I will be sure to explain how my upper limb disability affects my inability to self propel - as detailed in the OT Wheelchair specialist report.

L_Volunteer

Hopefully, it will be by phone as you hope @ElsieC1. Please feel free to let us know how things go and if you need any support in the meantime.

We are all here for you and listening to you. Take care for now and we will look forward to, hopefully, hearing from you again soon