Hi, my name is lindseywalsh! What kind of fit note do I need for New Style ESA?

lindseywalsh
lindseywalsh Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener

Hi I have a question on New Style ESA.

I'm not sure what type of fit note to ask my doctor to provide. I am 62 years old and have recently been diagnosed with M.E./CFS. My doctor agrees that I am unlikely to be well enough again before I retire. Is there an option on the sick note/fit note to say "Cannot work long term"? Or does she put the date of my retirement as the end date for the fit note? or does she put eg one month and I have to keep sending in monthly fit notes? Without the note from my GP how does the DWP know whether I can be put in the "support" grouping for ESA (for people who wont be returning to work) or in the employment group (ie where DWP helps people get back into work. )

Comments

  • Kimi87
    Kimi87 Online Community Member Posts: 8,558 Championing

    There is a box to tick on the Fit Note saying you aren't fit for work.

    Most GP's won't issue one for longer than 3 months.

    You need to go through the DWP Work Capability Assessment process and it's that which decides what group you are placed into.

  • lindseywalsh
    lindseywalsh Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener

    Thanks Kimi. That makes sense. I’ve done a bit of research in the meantime and together with your comment above, I undertand the process