deadline extensions for ESA50 forms under covid-19?? 

I’ve seen the DWP guidance that all face to face assessments have been suspended for 3 months - does anyone know what the situation is with ESA50 form deadlines? I can’t find any explicit exemption for the questionnaires in the recent guidance.

We are currently running a skeleton telephone service at my advice centre and lots of clients have been calling who need assistance with form filling. I’m assuming the virus/quarantine measures should be accepted as ‘good cause’ for any late returns but obviously do not want to risk someone having their claim stopped at the moment..

Has anyone heard what the plan is regarding providing on-going fit notes for those awaiting assessment? not easy to get if GP not allowing face to face appointments.