WRAG Group, is there a chance of re apprraisal ?

Hi

Referring to a previous post of mine about WRAG group work related interviews and work related training groups, here:- www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/forum?view=top...d=10&id=97815#103343

My partner M, was initially relatively OK about being put in the WRAG group, so did not appeal the initial decision that she was put in that group, and, rather naively, she felt that she may be able to handle it, but is now realising that as she is now being asked to attend work related activities etc., and that she is expected to attend things on pain of losing her benefits, and she is really uncomfortable about it, and all this is now having a marked effect on her mental state, and she is becoming more panicked about it, and is seriously wishing that she had appealed the decision, especially as she has picked up on the fact that the "Course" she's been put on, runs for 2 years, and she is expected to sign up for 2 years, and that is making things worse.

She is terrified that she has now got herself into a position that she cannot get out of, and is winding herself up even more because of it, and even though the JCP adviser, seems fairly sympathetic, I don't think the adviser realises the extent of M's difficulties with situations like this.

The adviser, did state that M's next ESA50 review will be next January, but does she have to wait for this review ?, or is there a way, even though she has missed the appeal deadline that there can be a reconsideration of her case ?, or does she just have to go through the motions until the next review ? .

She does have an appointment with her doctor early next week, and is going to mention all this to the doctor, but I don't know if they can help with anything.

Thank You for listening.

P.S., Many Thanks to those who have given advice before, it has been a great help

As long as it is less than 13 months since the original decision to put M into the WRAG then you can still appeal. You would be expected to show good cause for the late appeal, but DWP seem to be accepting these without argument at the moment. Like any other case, you would have to show how M meets the Support Group criteria. Given that undertaking WFIs has caused a deterioration in M's condition, it might be possible to argue that exceptional circumstances apply in her case - but the onus would be 100% upon you to provide evidence of this

Qualifying for the Support Group

Have a look at our appeal resources and see what you think

Appeals FAQs

ESA appeals

I must warn you though that M would still be obliged to undertake WFIs while awaiting appeal.