HOUSEHOLDS on Universal Credit and other disability-based benefits could see wait times for claims slashed under Government plans.
The Department for Work and Pensions is planning to test speeding up some disability claims, meaning they could avoid lengthy paperwork and health assessments.
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It comes after an online petition was set up calling for disability benefit claims to be based on medical advice only.
Currently, some people who want to claim Universal Credit and other disability-based benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) have to go through assessments and detailed forms to determine whether they are eligible.
These claims take on average 18 weeks, which campaigners say can leave ill and vulnerable people without access to the financial support they need.
But the petition set up by Ray Vanderahe said claims should be based “solely” on evidence from medical professionals, such as a letter from a GP or consultant.
He said: “We are concerned about how the disabled, with conditions such as inflammatory arthritis.
“Heart disease, lung disease, respiratory diseases, poor mental health etc, are treated by the benefits system.
“Claimants with medical evidence of their condition should not to be subject to degrading assessments.
“These delays in assessing claims risk deterring genuine claims. It has to stop.”
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In response to Mr Vanderahe’s petition, which has received around 28,000 signatures, the Government said it was looking at streamlining the system meaning some people could get disability payments quicker.
However, it added: “The Government has no plans to assess eligibility for all disability benefit applications based on medical evidence alone.”
How do you apply for Universal Credit, ESA and PIP?
Disabled households can apply for Universal Credit, ESA or PIP depending on their circumstances.
In some cases you can claim for more than one benefit at the same time too.
It’s worth using a benefits calculator to find out what you might be entitled to.
Websites like Turn2Us and Entitled To have useful tools you can use.
Applying for each of the three benefits varies though. Here’s how you can claim:
Universal Credit
Applying for Universal Credit should be relatively easy.
You have to go online and create an account.
Once you’ve created an account you must make a claim within 28 days otherwise you’ll have to start again.
If you live with your partner, you’ll both have to create accounts and you’ll join them together when you claim.
If you’re struggling to claim online you can use the Universal Credit helpline which is 0800 328 5644.
PIP
You can make a new PIP claim by calling the DWP on 0800 917 2222.
You can claim by post if you’re struggling to over the phone. For more details you can check out the Government’s website.
When you claim, you’ll need:
- Your contact details
- Date of birth
- National Insurance number
- Bank or building society account number and sort code
- Your doctor or health worker’s name, address and telephone number
- Dates and addresses for any time you’ve spent abroad, in a care home or hospital
Someone else can call on your behalf, but you’ll need to be with them when they call.
You’ll then be sent a form to fill in, after which you’ll be invited for an assessment or your health or social care worker will be asked for information.
After this you’ll be sent a letter telling you if your claim has been successful.
You can read Citizens Advice’s help on preparing for an assessment.
ESA
You can apply for ESA online or by phone on 0800 055 6688.
You’ll need a few things to hand though, including:
- your National Insurance number
- your bank or building society account number and sort code
- your doctor’s name, address and telephone number
- a fit note if you’ve not been able to work for more than 7 days in a row because of a disability or health condition
- details of your income, if you’re working
- the date your Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) ends, if you’re claiming it
The DWP will contact you within 10 days of applying to schedule an appointment if you’re eligible for the payment.
The appointment is usually over the phone with a Jobcentre Plus work coach who will explain what you need to do to get the ESA.
