Coma patient fit for work

Yep- it has finally happened (or near enough).

Client’s husband is in hospital in a coma. He was sent ESA50. Client contacted DWP to explain situation and was asked to obtain letter from hospital confirming he is in a coma. Did so. Was told to send it to ATOS rather than local BDC. Did so. Husband has now received decision letter- yep, as he has failed to return the ESA50 without good cause and is therefore capable of work and no longer entitled to ESA….

You couldn’t make it up.

Surely he can find work as a tailors Dummy or as an extra on Eastenders? Thats the problem with todays generation : people just arent prepared to make the effort. They dont WANT to work.

your client will, of course, be adding this case to her MP’s list of things to berate the DWP/ATOS about…

Indeed she will (if her MP takes it on board).

Have you contacted the media about this? Or would you mind if I sent a link about your thread to some of our contacts?

BBC Oxford have picked up similar stories from us over recent weeks - well worth contacting local media if client is willing - amazing how quickly DWP then respond behind the scenes!

Paul, by all means send a link to my thread.

It was with a DM for reconsideration when I rang contact centre on Monday so it may well be resolved by now. However, that doesn’t excuse the fact that it happened at all. My poor client has enough to cope with as it is.

Cool, have posted a link to Amelia Gentleman of the Guardian, so she may want to get in touch with you and/or your client in due course.

Her email is .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) if you want to get in touch directly?

Cheers for that Paul.