I'm wondering if anyone has successfully applied for ESA as a cancer patient. I have a history of cancer and have now developed cardiomyopathy as a side effect of the chemo and radio. I applied for ESA as I have had to stop teaching. When completing the ESA50 Capability for Work Questionnaire, I ticked the cancer box and my GP completed page 24 - Cancer treatment - and stated that my side effects are likely to limit all work indefinitely. I did not complete the rest of the booklet.
Has anyone applied under similar circumstances?
Will I still need a face to face/phone assessment or will I be put straight into a Support Group?
How long does the application take from one the ESA50 is submitted?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Jimmyod2000 and welcome to the Community.
It's was more than 10-11 years since I went through the ESA application....... and back then it was dealt with rather quickly if I remember....... I did not go to any interview and was put straight on the Support Group....... my CNS completed the relevant page for the medical professionals and I did not fill in most of other parts of the application apart from my contact details extra.
At the time I had been on my journey with my cancer for 12 years by then but as it was a low-grade Lymphoma so I could keep working until I retired from teaching.
I had went self employed after I retired doing odd jobs so it was Contribution Based ESA i was getting and I got it until I reached retirement age.
Lets see if anyone else can help you with up to date timings at the moment.
You could call the Macmillan Support Line that is open between 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00…… and speak with our benefits/financial guidance team.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms)………… so you could have a look through this link Cancer Specific Groups you will find all our dedicated cancer support groups listed.
Good news 
