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WCA - submitting medical evidence to Atos

  • jkw10
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11 years 2 weeks ago - 11 years 2 weeks ago #120735 by jkw10
I have CFS/ME and depression. I first claimed ESA in 2010, was passed as fit for work following a WCA but went on to win my appeal on exceptional circumstances (suicidal ideation which was ignored by Atos and DWP).

I was sent a ESA50 in May 2013 which I returned with medical evidence from my GP, counsellor, NHS ME clinic and Mum. I got nothing back - no letter, no WCA appt.

Since then, my Mum's health has declined and as I live with her, this has at times put me under considerable pressure. I have not had to dress or wash her but she needs a lot more emotional and other support as she gets older.

Now I have just received a letter from Atos asking me to attend a WCA later this month.

1. Is this unusual considering the time lapse between the ESA50 and the WCA? Should I check with the DWP that the form hasn't been lost in the post?

2. Should I attempt to gather any medical evidence and take it into the WCA? Would the Atos official take it or insist I send it onto the DWP? I'm trying to off-set the likelihood of a mandatory reconsideration period if I'm put in the WRAG or passed as fit for work.

Many thanks :(
Last edit: 11 years 2 weeks ago by Gordon.

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11 years 2 weeks ago #120742 by Gordon
Replied by Gordon on topic WCA - submitting medical evidence to Atos
jkw10

We have had a number of members report delays of 12 months or more so I am afraid that your wait is not unusual at the moment.

With regard updated evidence, you can take it with you to the interview, hand it over at the beginning and ask the assessor to read it before proceeding and to include it in your file, they are required to do so by section 3.1.2 of the WCA Handbook.

I would also recommend that you also send a copy to the DWP, for the attention of the Decision Maker, the address will be the DWP office that deals with you ESA claim.

You might want to have a look at the ESA Claim guides, there is a section at the back that covers the questions you are likely to be asked at the assessment.

www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/help-for-claimants/esa

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
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