ASD son
allison
Member
Hi advice very much needed
My son is ASDand dyslexic he has just turned 20 so tax credits have now stopped for him
He receives PIP
I've been advised to claim care allowance as I've never have and to try for ESA
I have a Drs appointment with my son on 21st as I need a medical cert or I think that is what I have to ask for? Esa person wasn't very helpful!
My son attends college 12 hours a week
Sorry I have never asked for help I've always tried to manage but benefits just totally baffle me
Comments
Hi Allison - thanks for posting.
Have you seen our information on carer's allowance - that might be a good place to start - https://www.cafamily.org.uk/advice-and-support/money-benefits-work-and-childcare/benefits-and-tax-credits/carers-allowance/
This page on ESA might also be helpful - https://www.gov.uk/employment-support-allowance/overview
Lots of people find that the CAB can be a really good place to help them work out what benefits they are entitled to and how to apply for them - you could find your local branch and get in touch here - https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/how-we-provide-advice/advice/search-for-your-local-citizens-advice/
You might also find our helpline useful too - 0808 808 3555.
Hopefully this has given you some good places to start - does anyone else have any useful tips or suggestions?
All the best,
Alex (CAF mod)
Well after waiting two weeks to see our doctor to see about a medical certificate for ESA for my son
He informed me I didn't need one as ESA send him a form to fill in
I told him ESA had requested one before they could do anything but doctor would not listen
So now I have been trying to sort this ESA since 2nd April and am no further on
It's frustrating and confusing
Hi @allison ,
It's so frustrating when doctor's don't listen or when you feel caught between two parts of the system. It might be worth making an appointment to see CAB - they can sometimes make phone calls and do things on your behalf - can help to have someone on your side?
What stage are you at - have you filled in one of these application forms for ESA already? https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/employment-and-support-allowance-claim-form
Hope things get a little easier,
Alex (CAF mod)
I haven't filled any forms in as when I spoke to ESA they said nothing can be done till I get the medical cert
I tried CAB but busy so I will try again on Monday
They definitely make it difficult
Thank you for advice
Getting carer's allowance is much easier tho, just a phone call really. Our local Carers support offers help with benefits, may be one near you? x
Also please bear in mind our wonderful benefits advisors can also help with a full benefits "MOT" and check you are claiming everything you are entitled to.
By calling our helpline you can ask for a Benefits Check :-) 0808 808 3555