I have been told I have to apply for ESA

PowerOn
PowerOn Member Posts: 200
edited 20. Feb 2013, 02:22 in Benefits and Working Matters archive
I am a "casual, zero hours employee" signing on for jsa for times I do not work.
The way it works is I am registered for jsa (job seekers allowance) and when I get a few days work I sign a statement of the hours and the pay, if it is over a certain amount the extra is deducted from jsa.

So I went into the benefits office to sign on as usual and did a "Steps to Work" interview.

During the interview I was asked what type of jobs I could do, I said the type of jobs I had been applying for and that I was trying to get more hours in the job I am in now but not a full time action job such as stacking shelves in a supermarket

BIG MISTAKE.

The interviewer got very official and insisted if I could not do "every" job advertised I had to get a sick note from my GP and apply for esa!

I said there are plenty of jobs I can do including the one I am in but she wasn't having it, she insisted I get a GP appointment and sick note for esa!

So now I have a GPs appointment in 2 weeks time to ask for a sick note to go onto esa.

Is this a formality to assess what jobs I can do and help with problems which make some jobs difficult, such as when tying my fingers hurt so I would get advice on any aids?

Work does not know I have health issues, I want more work. if they find out I am having problems they are just going to not phone me when a worker is needed. Zero hours employees have no protection or workers rights.

So annoyed with interviewer she could have just let me keep on as I am applying for jobs I can do and staying where I am.

She says they will be no break in my money, that I will get esa right away as long as I have a sick note.

Worried, of course this has to happen 6 weeks before a large loan is due to be repaid before the interest free limit ends.

Anyone any experience of esa assessments, do they offer advice and practical help for those who need lighter jobs?

I have telephoned CAB but they say they can offer no advice until I get a sick note.
Best joke I ever read, "With that information and a diagnosis of spondylosis, your doctor can develop a treatment plan‏" or back in reality totally ignore you. Is ok I have a sense of humour and a boxing glove, not defeated yet.

Comments

  • maria09
    maria09 Member Posts: 1,905
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi
    I have totally no idea how the DWP and job centre plus I dont think they do either!
    I feel they are totally inadequate :x
    Im claiming ESA for the first time in 30yrs as I am unable to work due to my condition :!:
    I went for medical assessment & was told I was fit for work & contact my employees :roll:
    Two days previous to their letter my pensions agency told me my application for Ill Health retirement was accepted :lol:
    Both agencies use ATOS so how can one say Im fit when the other states Im not :roll:
    Im totally bemused
    All I can do
    Is wish the best of luck
    Maria
  • PollySid
    PollySid Member Posts: 343
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I am sorry they have sent you to apply for ESA. The JS did the same to me (different circumstances) and I am now waiting for an appeal.
    Unfortunately most people fail the ATOS medical and have to go to appeal, so be prepared for a long, drawn out process.
    The medical is designed to see what you can do, not what you can't.
    It seems to me to be a viscious circle -
    JS don't want you as you have limited capability for work
    ESA say you are capable of work so go back to JS
    JS say you can't sign on as you are not capable of working a full week
    You go to ESA appeal and either win :P , or get sent back to the JS :x

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