The Green Paper Discussion (the document link is here too!)

I wrote to my MP (newly elected Labour) on Tuesday asking how he intended to vote. I have not even received an acknowledgement. They are sh***ing themselves I think. If/when I do receive a response, I will be posting it on every local FB page I can find, so that people know whether he supports the plan or not. That way he will be held accountable by constituents.

I agree . I have several conditions ME and Fibromyalgia which both set off each other . Fibromyalgia pain eases with an exercise ( walking a bit around the house example) but that the makes the fatigue from ME worse. That then sets off migraines, stomach problems flu like symptoms. This all leads to pains from cervical spondylitis and sciatica among the other usual pain that is constant. The only treatments are painkillers and muscle relaxers. They in turn can trigger another condition I have now been diagnosed with. I even have a GP letter from years ago stating my prognosis is not good yet I’m assessed every few years and scored zero points with evidence of that letter. Surely I should be now classed under their lifelong condition rule as there’s no cure for fibromyalgia or ME . I’ve had ME over 35 years , diagnosed over 15 years ago so I can’t see it going magically by itself. Sorry for long rant 😩😀

54.Alongside levelling up the rate, this change would end the indefinite entitlement to contributory ESA for those assessed as having limited capability for work-related activity (for new people claiming). Those unemployed after the time-limited period would be able to claim UC, depending on their personal circumstances. We believe this reform would align with the removal of the WCA, by offering a route to financial support for those with temporary and short-term health conditions, including for those who may not be entitled to PIP and therefore not entitled to the health element of UC.

The above implies for new claims?

If my next review is not until 2032 will I be ok before then ? Even though I don't have the 4 points. The mirror said that those who don't qualify will be given something but unsure what . My health will get worse over time can anyone help with this question please

54.Alongside levelling up the rate, this change would end the indefinite entitlement to contributory ESA for those assessed as having limited capability for work-related activity (for new people claiming). Those unemployed after the time-limited period would be able to claim UC, depending on their personal circumstances. We believe this reform would align with the removal of the WCA, by offering a route to financial support for those with temporary and short-term health conditions, including for those who may not be entitled to PIP and therefore not entitled to the health element of UC.

The above implies for new claims?

Morning @Catherine21

I've also found this, which implies that it's only NS ESA that's affected. Like you say, no mention of what would happen once WCA is scrapped. Perhaps current and then future PIP entitlement would be used to determine ongoing eligibility for old style CB ESA?

Introducing a new Unemployment Insurance by reforming contributory benefits

149. We are consulting on creating a new Unemployment Insurance for those that have made National Insurance contributions. This would mean people receive the income they need alongside the right employment support to get back into work. The welfare system was founded upon the contributory principle – the idea of ‘something-for-something’. Contributory benefits are a form of non-means tested support for those who experience unemployment. Currently, New Style Employment and Support Allowance (NS ESA) and New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (NS JSA) provide support for those who have recently become unemployed. To qualify for these benefits, 2 to 3 years’ worth of National Insurance credits must have been paid or credited prior to the date of a person’s claim. NS ESA supports individuals whose ability to work is restricted due to a disability or health condition. NS ESA relies on the WCA to determine eligibility. After the WCA, NS ESA places people in either a work-related activity group or a support group, which determines how much work preparation activity they are required to do and how long they are able to access the benefit. NS JSA also supports unemployed individuals, or those working on average less than 16 hours a week, but it does not have a health-related requirement. People receiving NS JSA are expected to be actively searching for work and are able to access the benefit for up to 6 months.

Hi Andi, I'm the same, my review is due in 2032 and my health will only get worse over time, from what I understand the 4 point rule will only be applied at someones next review (after Nov 2026) although they hint that there 'may' be some flexibility or other help for some existing claimants but they also said long term will never have to have review… The reality is they haven't actually clarified who it is that wont ever have to have a review, so I don't think anyone really knows all the details yet…. I'm not sure if they do !!

I went to MR for an increase in award and said to my legal advisor about asking for an extension. He said no not all at once let’s see what happens. He messed my new evidence up and I lost MR , when I called dwp to explain and asked about tribunal they instantly contacted the case manager who looked again and award me highest . I think had I requested they look at length of award I may of got it . Well done to you as at least you don’t have this worry right now x