Thank you for your two recent e-mails about your benefits.
I do understand your concerns, but the details of the Bill, including ESA, DLA and the new PIP, are still being discussed in both Houses and therefore it is speculation what the effect will be on any individual, as it is still not yet in law. However, I can assure you that the Government remains committed to supporting the vulnerable and providing support for all those who need it. The Bill is designed to ensure that disabled people get the right benefits for them and is not about taking money away from those with genuine disability.
I think, in your own case, you should come back to me if you are finding difficulties in obtaining the benefits to which you feel entitled once the changes are working in practice, and I will see what I can do to help.
Yours sincerely,

“Thanks for your mail.

I have been highlighting the injustice and unfairness of ATOS, who are not specialists in medical conditions, making judgements about Incapacity Benefit.

I have written to the Minister about the ATOS system which is not ‘fit for purpose’ – 72 % of appeals against decisions through CARF are upheld on appeal – but deserving citizens are put through unnecessary worry and stress as a result – and have to wait on average for 8 months for their appeal to be heard.

The system is unjust and I will be supporting the improvements made by the Lords – but much more still needs to be done to have a fair system not implemented by ATOS but by medically qualified staff who can make appropriate decisions based on medical evidence.

I will ask my staff to send copy of most recent letter sent to DWP in support of your position

Lindsay”

(CARF is an acronym for Citizens Advice & Rights Fife)

Thanks all