Part time study?

Hello,

I have been onESA going on 3 years, and am in the support group at the moment. I struggle with pretty much most aspects of my care, and require 25 hours of care a week from social services (3 calls a day and a further 13 hours in direct payments).

Although I struggle hugely with pain, fatigue and brain fog, I am really struggling with being off sick, and its making me extremely depressed. I know I couldn't cope with work, but study is something that I feel I could attempt part time - how successful I will be, I don't know.

My question is weather my ESA will likely be affected by this decision? I am petrified that the DWP will see this as a sign I could work, but it really isn't.

I would have the choice of either studying with the OU or at a local university - but due to dyslexia, i feel that face to face contact of a local uni would actually be more beneficial. I am aware that all lectures are recorded, so am likely to be able to arrange to have these in place when I am too unwell to get into uni, and other support for both learning and physical issues. Would signing up to either of these affect ESA more then the other?

I don't want to risk loosing my income, but I am finding it very hard to cope with having no way of moving myself forward. I know I may never be well enough to work, but I need something to give me a reason to live.

any advice and support would be appreciated xx