IB to ESA Supporting Info

ROCK wrote: I have gathered the supporting info, really good detailed letters from GP and Consultant, and am now starting on the form. A couple of questions.

If I use the PDF version and print it out to send rather than the handwritten one, will they use this too make assumptions about my abilities? Is it better to do the handwritten one?

They will assume either way

Explain why you have opted to complete the form in the manner you choose.

I have provided very detailed reports from my GP and Consultant. I want them to make the decision without a FtoF if possible. Would it be ok to say how ill the FtoF would make me (Severe anxiety and depression) and give them a copy of the Report from my last FtoF which was in 2010 for IB? This clearly states how I was then and the other evidence shows I have not changed. I realise they may still want to see me just wondered if it was ok to do this.

Many thanks

Yes this is fine, in addition to showing that your condition has remained the same or has deteriorated you also need to think about showing that you have not adapted to them either.

Gordon

ROCK wrote: Thanks Gordon, when you say 'not adapted' to them I am not sure what you mean? Sorry. Do you mean show that they still have a significant effect day to day? I was going to put that in the 'tell us about you', the first large box.

ATOS and the DWP assume that someone with a long term condition will adapt to their condition(s) and therefore reduce the impact of them.

In reality, adapting may just mean avoiding doing something, which of course does not mean that that the underlying problem is lessened. so some poor examples might be; someone with incontinence not taking fluids before they go out, or someone with social phobia only meeting with people that they know.

Gordon

ROCK wrote: Thanks Gordon, so I need to show I have not adapted, think I have got you. I assume examples where you are not coping with the symptoms of the illnesses in your day to day life would a way of showing you have 'not adapted'?

Most certainly

It may be enough to just say that you have not adapted, the important thing is to consider it, they certainly will.

Gordon