Assessment nearing ESA :(

Mathew wrote: Good news I hope Gordan, I've just rang the benefit office and they looked at some information that the doctor who did my assessment has put and she has recommended that I should be placed into the "Support Group" even though the DWP might not agree, the call agent said it's highly unlikely

The DWP DM usually accept the ATOS recommendation so let's hope that this is the case for you.

Gordon

Mathew wrote: If anyone can help, if the decision is to put me into the Support Group how is back pay sorted out? My claim started in December 2014, and I'm still on the assessment rate and had my medical on the 23rd May 2014

From your previous posts, this was a new claim for ESA (not a transfer), this being the case back payments will be due from the beginning of week 14 of your claim. It usually takes an additional 2-3 weeks for the DWP to make any payment and for a claimant to receive updated fortnightly payments, once you have received the Decision Notice.

Gordon

Mathew wrote: Can i trust what the lady on the phone at the Atos office said? Does the HCP put any information on the system before sending off the file to the DWP? Its driving me insane that the lady on the phone said "You've been put in the support group by the HCP that saw you at home" but I thought you can't find out any information until the DWP's decision

I am afraid that there is little that I can say to help quiet your anxiety about what the result of you assessment is.

It has been common in recent months for ATOS to reveal details of the assessors recommendation to the claimant over the phone, I have no reason to doubt the information provided.

However, it is only a recommendation, so as frustrating as it is, you need to wait for the DWP to notify you formally of their Decision.

Gordon