ESA Appeal Date Looms - in bits

[albatross_]

I agree with what loan ranger has said about having representation at the tribunal, whether your Mum attends or not. My OH was told by a tribunal chairman that it's much better to attend in person if it's at all possible and that there's a better chance of a good result by doing that.

 

HB

 

 

As I've stated, she isn't in a fit state, and her WRO that had agreed to go with her can't as they have given her such short notice (5 days) as she is the only one in our area.

[ErikaPNP]

They can have the hearing in your mother's absence, yes. Is it a possibility for the WRO to request a postponement to a later date where she could perhaps attend as your mother's representative? A postponement request needs to be made in writing, but they can refuse to agree to a postponement.

[albatross_]

I'm sorry to be a pest, I'm only 17 and a bit at a loss what to do. The Tribunal Hearing is this Wednesday, I'm thinking its to late to write a letter requesting a postponement?

 

Thanks for the replies.

[honeybee13]

Oh dear, this is tough for you isn't it? I would try ringing the Tribunals Service first, as they may be easier to get hold of and are pleasant to deal with, from what I've heard. If it turns out they can't help you, ask them who they think you should contact. You could also speak with the Welfare Rights person who should have the inside track.

 

After that, you're looking at ringing the DWP.

 

Please keep posting and we'll do whatever we can.

 

My best, HB x

[ErikaPNP]

A postponement lies solely at the discretion of the tribunal. A rep can attend in her absence and request adjournment but this has to be someone she has given authority to be a rep in the appeal which in this case would be the WRO. (or anyone else that she has asked rep for her in addition to the WRO) Has anyone spoken to the tribunal service? If not ring them first thing in the morning to explain that your mother is far too ill to attend. This is better than not appearing at all from which they may draw their own inferences.

[emmaf01]

Hi Albatross's child. Have you got the doctor to come out and have a chat to your Mum? As someone with a mental health disability myself, I feel your Mum might need some extra help as she's having such a rough time. Ignore me if it would feel uncomfortable, I'm just worried about her.

 

As for the tribunal- if the welfare rights officer can't make it tomorrow you should ask her to contact the Tribunal to re-arrange. Also if you contact your GP perhaps they could organise a sick note of some sort to say your Mum cannot make it due to ill health- just a thought.

 

Has the welfare rights officer submitted any evidence on your Mum's behalf? If so the tribunal could still consider this.