EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT ALLOWANCE (ESA) SELF-HELP PACK

We are sorry to hear that you have had a decision advising you that you no longer are entitled to ESA and/or National Insurance Credits following your ‘Limited Capability for Work Assessment’.

We have enclosed in this pack information, copy documents and letters that may help you to appeal the decision.

You have one calendar month from the date the decision was sent to you to lodge an appeal. However if you find yourself outside the time limit, it is worth sending in your appeal, as the time limit can be extended.

You should have received attached to the decision a summary of the points you obtained under the assessment. It should tell you the activities under which it was decided you had difficulties and the total number of points you obtained (see the enclosed list of descriptors with points).

As you may wish to dispute some of the areas we suggest that you contact the Benefit Department immediately to advise them you intend to appeal and ask them to send you a copy of the DWP Healthcare Professional’s medical report completed on you, ie ESA 85. This will then allow you to see where you might need to dispute the decision made or point out any misunderstandings.

We have enclosed in this pack:-

 A sample appeal letter that you can use. (Insert your medical conditions on it in the space provided)

 A sample letter you can use to write to your doctor or other persons that could provide you with supportive evidence (attach a copy of the descriptors enclosed that have no points on them to the letter). If you attach the descriptors with no points on to the letter it means that you cannot be accused of leading the doctor or other person to get what you want.

 An ESA Tribunal Guide which guides you through the whole process.