Wrag support group question

Hi long short, after 15 years on IB I've been placed in the WRAG and am appealing to go into the support group. I have SLE Lupus and stress triggers pain and weakness all over my body. In particular there have been 3 occasions where stress has caused me to collapse with stroke like symptoms leaving weaker on one side for years later. My last one occured when all the papers arrived to say I was fit for work 3 months ago. I am appealing mainly on the grounds of exceptional circumstances with there being risk to my physical health. What I and my family are afraid of us if I were to get a massive stroke and not recover from it. Lupus sufferers have a higher risk of stroke also my mother died of one. This whole situation stresses me out every single day which worsens all my symptoms I get. What are thoughts on the chances of me being moved? I have sent letters from gp and rheumatologist and it's not enough so far, I have a letter from gp agreeing it will be putting my health at risk if I stayed in the WRAG which I will take with me to tribunal on Thursday. I dont know what to expect to be honest. I would very much appreciate some advice, thank you, joy

Hi Joy,

I'm sorry that this process is causing you so much stress and illness The truth is that no-one can accurately assess the likelihood of your tribunal being successful. All I can say is that you stand a good chance of success if you have clearly shown how taking part in specific Work Related Activities carries a significant risk to your health. Other than that, all you can do is cross your fingers and hope!

Hi j,

As a fellow SLE Lupus sufferer, you have my sympathy.

Have a look at the following :

Preparing for a Tribunal

Disability Rights UK Factsheet - Appeals and reconsiderations

MOJ Video of ESA Appeals Process and Tribunal

If you are to present any evidence on the day, try and provide 3 copies plus your own, give them to The Clerk as soon as you arrive.

Good luck, and please return to let us know how you get on.

bro58

Hi thankyou both for your advice I will do both these things. I am feeling very nervous about tomorrow now. For anyone who's been to a tribunal for the same reasons what kind of questions do they ask? Joy

Also can you delay the hearing if you dont feel you have enough evidence from your consultant? I was expecting a 2nd more specific letter from him, but he's now saying he wants the tribunal to write to him with their questions so at the moment I only have my doctor saying he believe it will put physical health at risk. Will they take much notice if that? Joy

joy wrote: Also can you delay the hearing if you dont feel you have enough evidence from your consultant? I was expecting a 2nd more specific letter from him, but he's now saying he wants the tribunal to write to him with their questions so at the moment I only have my doctor saying he believe it will put physical health at risk. Will they take much notice if that? Joy

Hi j,

It is rather late in the day, however, you could write a letter and give it to The Clerk informing them that your Consultant has now stated that he is only prepared to write a letter at the tribunal's request.

The Tribunal should pay due regards to any supportive evidence from your G.P.

bro58