I have a client who has taken time off of his degree, since March 2009, due to MH problems he will be going back to University in September and so he has taken in effect a break and has not been paid a student loan. It seems on looking at it, he is 22, that he cannot claim ESA as he is a full time student and does not receive DLA, which we have applied for. It seems the ESA scheme has removed the former disabled student route to benefit.

Are there any other suggestions as to what the client might be able to claim until he resumes his studies? For reference the client is not able to sign on due to his MH problems.

Thanks in advance.

I should also add he has applied for DSA. Also if he he has not been dismissed from the course or left it but has deferred a term would be still be assessed as possessing a SL for example even though he has not been paid a SL?

Many thanks again in advance.