‘old style’ CB ESA and UC

Client claimed CB ESA prior to UC coming to the area and has remained in the SG without being reassessed (as far as he knows) ever since. Due to a complex notional capital issue he was not entitled to IR ESA previously and his HB claim was refused but due to diminishing notional capital rules he can probably claim MTBs today. Now full service UC area and he wants help with housing costs.

1) Is he still on ‘old style’ CB ESA or does the coming of UC to the area automatically change it to new style ESA without him making a new claim?

2) If he is still on ‘old style’ CB ESA are there any issues with him claiming UC as well? It would not make sense for him to give up CB ESA at this stage as he has an elderly, very ill mother and he will probably inherit some money if she passes away.

This may be a daft question but I just want to make sure.

He is currently still on old-style ESA. Claiming UC would simply convert it to a new-style award.

Is there a possibility of SDP entitlement if he was entitled to ir-ESA?

This thread is really helpful to get the head around how C-ESA is affected in a UC full service area: https://www.rightsnet.org.uk/forums/viewthread/13232/ (have saved this for future reference)

C-ESA remains ‘old-style’ so long as UC is not claimed, and as it is one benefit with ir-ESA and C-ESA, then an income related amount could be paid if there is entitlement. If UC is claimed, then the C-ESA is ‘converted’ into New Style ESA, which cannot include an ir-ESA amount.

Thanks both, very helpful. The SDP is not a possibility with this claimant unfortunately.