IR ESA SG but never applied for PIP...anxious!

Hi.

I have been very worried at the mention in the newsletter that IDS is considering merging ESA and PIP (the latter being something I've never applied for despite being in the SG).

I have been receiving sickness benefit for 11 years since I got sick and was forced to leave my job.
I am currently in receipt of ESA (Support Group) after having to appeal (and then two years' down the line) being kept in the SG (was told on phone for 3 years) without a FtoF assessment.

My condition fluctuates: I have Fibro and CFS (there are times I can do very little at all and my symptoms are many and can be extremely debilitating...I also suffer extreme anxiety and depression). I live with my mum - who works 4 hours a day - so do have support a lot of the time (and a family friend - semi-retired who has always/ continued to be been very good at taking me to doctor's appts., taking me to the shops occasionally, just generally helping me getting around when I can get out (because I need someone with me due to condition itself, I can't drive anymore anyway, plus I have extreme anxiety). Because I have my mum and a helpful friend with a ca,r I have always avoided applying for DLA/ PIP because I have felt close to ending things just going through the ESA process alone.

I have been frightened by this news of IDS considering merging PIP and ESA as I am worried it will look odd that I have applied for one ie ESA (which I've been on long term) but not the other ie PIP, especially as I do not use a wheelchair or a stick.

I just haven't been able to/ can't face applying for PIP and really don't want to. I manage as I am with help from my mum and family friend. (ESA process is bad enough). I am fortunate not to have dependents and because I live with my mum (and my friend helps out with their car) I get by. I don't think I could apply for PIP even if I didn't have a friend who helps to get me out sometimes... I just can't cope with the stress of the process (on top of ESA). I read too that failing PIP can jeopardise ESA entitlement so that's another reason.

Will it go against me/ look suspicious if I am on IR ESA SG and haven't/ don't apply for PIP (if assessments merge both benefits) especially as I have been ill so long? I have been super anxious since reading the newsletter today...

Can anyone advise? Thanks.

Hi
The news. Item was just a heads up for future reference.
Nothing has been decided.
Its just talk at the moment so please do not worry about something which is just a possibility on the horizon at the moment.
When and if IDS tries to make his move then Benefits & Work will keep you fully updated in any case.