I have decided to highlight a comment to a previous post on this.
"Anonymous said...
Can someone give advice about medical examinations under the DLA review.
Some of what I read seems to suggest that if you are receiving the higher rate of DLA (originally granted under Special Rules) then you do not have to undertake a medical.
Can anybody clarify this situation please?"
See the guidance on the Governments Directgov website
Of particular note is,
"Medical examinations when you're already getting DLA
Receiving the right amount of benefit - 'Right Payment Programme'
If you're already receiving Disability Living Allowance, you may be asked to attend a medical examination as part of the Right Payment Programme.
Under the Right Payment Rrogramme, any Disability Living Allowance award may be reviewed to make sure the person is receiving the right amount of benefit.
If you receive an enquiry form, don't worry, your current benefit award will only be changed if the review highlights a change in your current entitlement. If this happens, your award will be adjusted accordingly - this could be up or down. If there are no material changes, your award will remain the same as before.
Renewal claims and reviews
If you've been awarded Disability Living Allowance for a fixed period, you will have to make another claim to renew your benefit just before your entitlement ends. This is called a 'renewal claim'. Renewal claims are treated exactly the same as new claims, so you may be asked to attend a medical examination.
If your benefit award is for an indefinite period, you will not usually have to make a renewal claim. However, indefinite awards can sometimes be reviewed and you may need to have another medical examination as part of the review."
I hope this answers the originators question fully. Thanks for raising this key point.
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
Monday, 17 March 2008
Important information if you ask for a re-review or appeal
Thanks to Jim (Tcell) for raising this. Also thanks for Steve (who is a Benefits Writer & Trainer) of the Benefits & Work website for coming back so quick with an answer.
The issue was:
"If I ask for a re-review or an appeal. Could that process result in the original decision made. Being lowered or my Disability Living Allowance being removed?"
I posted this to the members forum on Benefits & Work. You may need to subscribe to get access to this.
Steve replied:
"I'm afraid the answer to your question is that when you ask for a decision to be looked at again your award can be reduced or removed altogether. That applies regardless of the nature of the decision you are asking to have looked at.
Clearly the likelihood of this happening will depend very much on what evidence there is to support the current award. It's part of a welfare rights worker's job to assess the strength of a case and advise on the degree of risk - but there will always be some."
I mention this so that you can make a considered decision if you are unhappy with the result of your review and wish to challenge it.
Also I hope you see what a valuable resource the Benefits & Work website is.
If you want to read more about the site click here.
The issue was:
"If I ask for a re-review or an appeal. Could that process result in the original decision made. Being lowered or my Disability Living Allowance being removed?"
I posted this to the members forum on Benefits & Work. You may need to subscribe to get access to this.
Steve replied:
"I'm afraid the answer to your question is that when you ask for a decision to be looked at again your award can be reduced or removed altogether. That applies regardless of the nature of the decision you are asking to have looked at.
Clearly the likelihood of this happening will depend very much on what evidence there is to support the current award. It's part of a welfare rights worker's job to assess the strength of a case and advise on the degree of risk - but there will always be some."
I mention this so that you can make a considered decision if you are unhappy with the result of your review and wish to challenge it.
Also I hope you see what a valuable resource the Benefits & Work website is.
If you want to read more about the site click here.
Just to let you know ...
Further to my post Updates of Friday 14th March 2008 .
I received and email from the PA of Jenny Willott MP and Liberal Democrat member of the Select Committee for Work & Pensions.
In this email it mentions that here office is aware of our blog.
I would like to thank her & her staff for taking the time to appraise themselves of our issues.
Jenny Willott MP represents Cardiff Central. If you live within her area. You can find her web site by clicking here.
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it for completeness. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
I received and email from the PA of Jenny Willott MP and Liberal Democrat member of the Select Committee for Work & Pensions.
In this email it mentions that here office is aware of our blog.
I would like to thank her & her staff for taking the time to appraise themselves of our issues.
Jenny Willott MP represents Cardiff Central. If you live within her area. You can find her web site by clicking here.
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it for completeness. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
Posted on another forum we have elsewhere on the internet.
Someone suggested that http://www.benefitsnow.co.uk/dmakers/default.asp might be useful for people to know about.
However, like many sites on the internet. Where Disability Living Allowance is mentioned. It can mention and relate to the "Disability Handbook".
This handbook once used by Decision makers. Has been superseded by a computer based "Customer Care Management System". This system using different modelling methods.
The Disability Rights Handbook 33rd edition - April 2008 to April 2009 is available for purchase from the Disability Alliance website.
See the news articles on this at the Benefits & Work website. You may need to be a member to read these.
Benefits & Work - "New DLA 'points' system: zero for heroes - and many others"
Benefits & Work - "DLA Disability Handbook Ditched" {membership required}
You may also find the section on 'DLA resouces" on the Benefits & Work website, quite useful though you have to join the site to access it.
I just mention this to make you aware when you are surfing to other sites for information.
However, like many sites on the internet. Where Disability Living Allowance is mentioned. It can mention and relate to the "Disability Handbook".
This handbook once used by Decision makers. Has been superseded by a computer based "Customer Care Management System". This system using different modelling methods.
The Disability Rights Handbook 33rd edition - April 2008 to April 2009 is available for purchase from the Disability Alliance website.
See the news articles on this at the Benefits & Work website. You may need to be a member to read these.
Benefits & Work - "New DLA 'points' system: zero for heroes - and many others"
Benefits & Work - "DLA Disability Handbook Ditched" {membership required}
You may also find the section on 'DLA resouces" on the Benefits & Work website, quite useful though you have to join the site to access it.
I just mention this to make you aware when you are surfing to other sites for information.
From Dame Carol Black, National Director for Health & Work
For your information.
A story from the BBC News Website "Ill health 'costs the economy £100bn'"
"Ill health 'costs economy £100bn'
Ill health costs the British economy over £100bn a year - the same as the cost of running the NHS for a year, a report is set to say.
The calculation will appear in an analysis by Dame Carol Black, national director for health and work.
She has been looking at ways of helping people who are sick get back to work.
Measures in the report include replacing sick notes with "well notes" stating what work somebody who may have health problems can actually do.
Dame Carol is also proposing trials of a new Fit for Work service to provide access to specialists such as physiotherapists and counsellors for all employees in the early stages of sickness.
The aim would be to take quick action to help these people stay at, or return to work.
She said doctors did not wait until a cancer patient developed secondary tumours to offer treatment - but inaction in the workplace too often allowed easily treatable, minor problems to deteriorate into something more severe.
The report will say the total cost of ill-health to the British economy is around £103bn.
The bulk of that - £63bn - is made of the benefit costs and lost taxes for people who are not working due to illness or disability.
"We know that staying in or returning to work is generally good for patient's health, whereas unemployment is progressively damaging"
Alan Johnson
Health secretary
The rest of the bill is made up the cost of the care given by family and friends, the cost to an employer of having someone absent from work and other additional costs.
Dame Carol believes whole sections of society have "drifted" into a benefits culture, with generations of the same family never working.
However, she stressed that these people were not lazy - they just needed support to get back into employment.
She said: "Often these conditions are mild, such as mild mental health and musculo-skeletal problems, such as a bad back.
"There are often treatable and preventable if we could get in there early.
"But we have nothing in place at the moment that gives us early intervention and prevention."
For instance, Dame Carol said GPs struggled to get speedy access to physiotherapy and mental health counselling services.
Well notes
Well notes set out what tasks a worker can perform instead of certificates automatically signing someone off.
Sick notes are given to those with short-term health problems, but ministers are concerned people can then "drift" into claiming incapacity benefit.
Both of the main political parties are keen to significantly reduce the number of claimants.
The proposed change is not backed by doctors, who say it is asking them to "police the system".
GPs are also likely to be expected to offer patients advice about what they can do to get fit for work.
James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said working could make a "real difference" to people's health and quality of life.
Secretary of State for Health, Alan Johnson, said: "We know that staying in or returning to work is generally good for patient's health, whereas unemployment is progressively damaging."
Being unemployed could lead to problems such as more sickness, mental illness, disability, increased use of medication, higher hospital admission rates and shorter life expectancy, he added.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7297174.stm
Published: 2008/03/17 04:20:28 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
A story from the BBC News Website "Ill health 'costs the economy £100bn'"
"Ill health 'costs economy £100bn'
Ill health costs the British economy over £100bn a year - the same as the cost of running the NHS for a year, a report is set to say.
The calculation will appear in an analysis by Dame Carol Black, national director for health and work.
She has been looking at ways of helping people who are sick get back to work.
Measures in the report include replacing sick notes with "well notes" stating what work somebody who may have health problems can actually do.
Dame Carol is also proposing trials of a new Fit for Work service to provide access to specialists such as physiotherapists and counsellors for all employees in the early stages of sickness.
The aim would be to take quick action to help these people stay at, or return to work.
She said doctors did not wait until a cancer patient developed secondary tumours to offer treatment - but inaction in the workplace too often allowed easily treatable, minor problems to deteriorate into something more severe.
The report will say the total cost of ill-health to the British economy is around £103bn.
The bulk of that - £63bn - is made of the benefit costs and lost taxes for people who are not working due to illness or disability.
"We know that staying in or returning to work is generally good for patient's health, whereas unemployment is progressively damaging"
Alan Johnson
Health secretary
The rest of the bill is made up the cost of the care given by family and friends, the cost to an employer of having someone absent from work and other additional costs.
Dame Carol believes whole sections of society have "drifted" into a benefits culture, with generations of the same family never working.
However, she stressed that these people were not lazy - they just needed support to get back into employment.
She said: "Often these conditions are mild, such as mild mental health and musculo-skeletal problems, such as a bad back.
"There are often treatable and preventable if we could get in there early.
"But we have nothing in place at the moment that gives us early intervention and prevention."
For instance, Dame Carol said GPs struggled to get speedy access to physiotherapy and mental health counselling services.
Well notes
Well notes set out what tasks a worker can perform instead of certificates automatically signing someone off.
Sick notes are given to those with short-term health problems, but ministers are concerned people can then "drift" into claiming incapacity benefit.
Both of the main political parties are keen to significantly reduce the number of claimants.
The proposed change is not backed by doctors, who say it is asking them to "police the system".
GPs are also likely to be expected to offer patients advice about what they can do to get fit for work.
James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said working could make a "real difference" to people's health and quality of life.
Secretary of State for Health, Alan Johnson, said: "We know that staying in or returning to work is generally good for patient's health, whereas unemployment is progressively damaging."
Being unemployed could lead to problems such as more sickness, mental illness, disability, increased use of medication, higher hospital admission rates and shorter life expectancy, he added.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7297174.stm
Published: 2008/03/17 04:20:28 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Income Support. Just sharing a recent problem.
Today, in the post. My partner received a letter From the DWP "Jobcentre Plus". This followed a telephone call and supporting followup letter.
The initial problem was a change in his payment frequency. A letter was received, a few weeks ago. Stating that, as he had requested a change to the payment frequency, it was now changed. Of course, no change was ever requested.
So we telephoned them. There was some excuse given about his surname (it is hyphenated). We should point out that for the last seven years they have had his correct information. The excuse was suggesting he had just notified them of a "change of name".
Based on previous experience with the DWP. I decided to write a letter. I would advise you to always follow up a call to them with a letter. If only so an "audit" trail is created on your file, but I digress.
The response this morning blames "human" and "computer" errors.
The key bit of information and the reason for this post is :
"The initial problem arose following information downloaded to the Income Support (IS) Computer System from the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) Computer system. The DLA system currently holds your name correctly as a hyphenated surname, the IS system will not allow the name to be hyphenated. This resulted in your Income Support claim being suspended, incorrectly.
When Income Support was put back into the payment the computer system faulted and initially payments had to be made weekly."
This explaination completely different & much fuller than the initial phone call. We didn't know until this his benefit had been suspended.
I post this to show how the computer systems work. The potential problems that might arise. If you have a hyphenated surname "forewarned is forearmed".
On the DLA front. Further to previous posts. We are both still waiting to hear back from the DWP.
The initial problem was a change in his payment frequency. A letter was received, a few weeks ago. Stating that, as he had requested a change to the payment frequency, it was now changed. Of course, no change was ever requested.
So we telephoned them. There was some excuse given about his surname (it is hyphenated). We should point out that for the last seven years they have had his correct information. The excuse was suggesting he had just notified them of a "change of name".
Based on previous experience with the DWP. I decided to write a letter. I would advise you to always follow up a call to them with a letter. If only so an "audit" trail is created on your file, but I digress.
The response this morning blames "human" and "computer" errors.
The key bit of information and the reason for this post is :
"The initial problem arose following information downloaded to the Income Support (IS) Computer System from the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) Computer system. The DLA system currently holds your name correctly as a hyphenated surname, the IS system will not allow the name to be hyphenated. This resulted in your Income Support claim being suspended, incorrectly.
When Income Support was put back into the payment the computer system faulted and initially payments had to be made weekly."
This explaination completely different & much fuller than the initial phone call. We didn't know until this his benefit had been suspended.
I post this to show how the computer systems work. The potential problems that might arise. If you have a hyphenated surname "forewarned is forearmed".
On the DLA front. Further to previous posts. We are both still waiting to hear back from the DWP.
Friday, 14 March 2008
Updates.
Well, Budget Day this week has started the debate on the Employment & Support Allowance. It has allowed us to get some idea of what, the powers that be, plan for those on Incapacity Benefit.
We have some more support from some well known faces. The last to sign was June Brown and the number of signatures continues to grow on the RPP petition.
Two weeks ago I emailed -MP’s & members of the W&P select committee. Vince Cable, Diane Abbott, David Cameron Ming Campbell, Jeremy Corbyn, Frank Dobson, Alan Duncan, Angela Eagle, George Galloway, Greg Hands, Glenda Jackson, Stephen Timms, Keith Vaz, Anne McGuire, Terry Rooney, Anne Begg, Harry Cohen, Michael Foster, Oliver Heald, Joan Humble, Tom Levitt, Greg Mulholland, John Penrose, Mark Pritchard, Jenny Willott.
I have had no response. I note that this week our issues have been picked up by the wider Budget debate, by some of the above. Am a great believer in "nothing ventured nothing gained" and doing something is better than not even trying.
I wrote to THR's Princes William & Harry. Prince Harry is very involved with HIV/Aids in Lesotho. I have received a response and will upload it to documents on the main web page.
The team, Tcell, is getting more organised. Working in the background to raise the profile of our issues. Thanks. More soon.
My partner is working on a new website to include this blog & forums. If there is anything you would like to see. Please email me. This is as much your resource as ours.
The GL 24 form from the DWP on how to appeal a benefit decision was added to Documents. Please read it it covers the route of appeals for all benefits and may prove useful elsewhere.
Note the responses to the polls, to gauge the picture of how this is affecting people. Thank you to all who have taken the time to vote & help with this data collection.
I note that of the 11 "votes" cast on the poll "I have had a decision on my DLA and.." - 5 people say it has stayed the same with 4 reporting a change.
Thank you to all who read this. I hope it helps. Thanks to all those who email & comment, sharing there experiences with us all.
We have some more support from some well known faces. The last to sign was June Brown and the number of signatures continues to grow on the RPP petition.
Two weeks ago I emailed -MP’s & members of the W&P select committee. Vince Cable, Diane Abbott, David Cameron Ming Campbell, Jeremy Corbyn, Frank Dobson, Alan Duncan, Angela Eagle, George Galloway, Greg Hands, Glenda Jackson, Stephen Timms, Keith Vaz, Anne McGuire, Terry Rooney, Anne Begg, Harry Cohen, Michael Foster, Oliver Heald, Joan Humble, Tom Levitt, Greg Mulholland, John Penrose, Mark Pritchard, Jenny Willott.
I have had no response. I note that this week our issues have been picked up by the wider Budget debate, by some of the above. Am a great believer in "nothing ventured nothing gained" and doing something is better than not even trying.
I wrote to THR's Princes William & Harry. Prince Harry is very involved with HIV/Aids in Lesotho. I have received a response and will upload it to documents on the main web page.
The team, Tcell, is getting more organised. Working in the background to raise the profile of our issues. Thanks. More soon.
My partner is working on a new website to include this blog & forums. If there is anything you would like to see. Please email me. This is as much your resource as ours.
The GL 24 form from the DWP on how to appeal a benefit decision was added to Documents. Please read it it covers the route of appeals for all benefits and may prove useful elsewhere.
Note the responses to the polls, to gauge the picture of how this is affecting people. Thank you to all who have taken the time to vote & help with this data collection.
I note that of the 11 "votes" cast on the poll "I have had a decision on my DLA and.." - 5 people say it has stayed the same with 4 reporting a change.
Thank you to all who read this. I hope it helps. Thanks to all those who email & comment, sharing there experiences with us all.
Thursday, 13 March 2008
Terry Rooney MP mentioned today
Mr. Terry Rooney MP is the Chairman of the Work & Pensions Select Committee. You can find out some more information on him by clicking here. You will be aware I have written to him in the past.
I caught this by way of an interview on BBC News 24 with Aidan Hargitt of The Royal Association for Disability & Rehabilitation.
Though he spoke in the context of Incapacity Benefit & the incoming Employment & Support Allowance.
Mr Hargitt mentioned that Terry Rooney MP spoke in the House of Commons today. He mentioned that a recent survey showed that 70% of employers would not shortlist a candidate with a history of mental health problems.
{added 14th March 2008. you can read this debate by clicking here - you need to scroll down to this point.}
He did point out that those with "invisible impariments are liable to be most affected by any political drives to get people off Incapacity Benefits. Then this is very worrying. Because a 70% figure would suggest that there are many people out there who want to work but cannot" because of this barrier.
He went on to say that mental health problems are on the increase. That employers had undertaken some actions to deal with the issues raised but there was more work to be done.
As many people in DLA also claim Incapacity Benefit I thought this was worth posting for general information purposes.
We should be encouraged by organisations within the Disabled Community. Taking every oppourtunity to raise the common issues we all face.
You might also be interested in this story from the Times Online "Whitehall cannot afford to pay for incapacity benefit tests, say Tories"
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it as some may not have caught the story. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
I caught this by way of an interview on BBC News 24 with Aidan Hargitt of The Royal Association for Disability & Rehabilitation.
Though he spoke in the context of Incapacity Benefit & the incoming Employment & Support Allowance.
Mr Hargitt mentioned that Terry Rooney MP spoke in the House of Commons today. He mentioned that a recent survey showed that 70% of employers would not shortlist a candidate with a history of mental health problems.
{added 14th March 2008. you can read this debate by clicking here - you need to scroll down to this point.}
He did point out that those with "invisible impariments are liable to be most affected by any political drives to get people off Incapacity Benefits. Then this is very worrying. Because a 70% figure would suggest that there are many people out there who want to work but cannot" because of this barrier.
He went on to say that mental health problems are on the increase. That employers had undertaken some actions to deal with the issues raised but there was more work to be done.
As many people in DLA also claim Incapacity Benefit I thought this was worth posting for general information purposes.
We should be encouraged by organisations within the Disabled Community. Taking every oppourtunity to raise the common issues we all face.
You might also be interested in this story from the Times Online "Whitehall cannot afford to pay for incapacity benefit tests, say Tories"
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it as some may not have caught the story. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
Vince Cable, Treasury, Liberal Party - BBC News 24 today
From an interview with Vince Cable, Treasury, Liberal Party. On BBC News 24, concerning Incapacity Benefit.
You may also be interested in this story on the BBC News website - click here.
"He is calling for Support, and a flexible approach to those on Incapacity Benefit & "invalidity benefit". He mentions a "flexible" approach, needed to help people get back to part time work so that they are not penalised.
He picked up on the Mental Health issues.
He raised the issue of the medical tests. Over riding the judgements of GP's. People working to quota's as they already do for some of the disability benefits. Trying to get people off the lists but not actually solving the problem.
He was asked if it was his "gut instinct" or "worry" that this was just a ways of saving money.
He replied that it was. Though he acknowledged that some money could be saved. But that you have to "invest" to "save". That the money had to go in to help people that are disabled especially those with mental health issues.
He also said there were no short cuts here. That this wasn't going to happen quickly or easily."
I did email Mr. Cable as part of a cross party email I sent out about our issues. I have had no response. However his response above clearly indicates he is very aware of the problems we as part of the disabled community are facing.
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it as some may not have caught the story. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
You may also be interested in this story on the BBC News website - click here.
"He is calling for Support, and a flexible approach to those on Incapacity Benefit & "invalidity benefit". He mentions a "flexible" approach, needed to help people get back to part time work so that they are not penalised.
He picked up on the Mental Health issues.
He raised the issue of the medical tests. Over riding the judgements of GP's. People working to quota's as they already do for some of the disability benefits. Trying to get people off the lists but not actually solving the problem.
He was asked if it was his "gut instinct" or "worry" that this was just a ways of saving money.
He replied that it was. Though he acknowledged that some money could be saved. But that you have to "invest" to "save". That the money had to go in to help people that are disabled especially those with mental health issues.
He also said there were no short cuts here. That this wasn't going to happen quickly or easily."
I did email Mr. Cable as part of a cross party email I sent out about our issues. I have had no response. However his response above clearly indicates he is very aware of the problems we as part of the disabled community are facing.
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it as some may not have caught the story. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
Wednesday, 12 March 2008
Budget Day.
Today is Budget Day. It's very much the lead story on all UK based news channels.
You can get a copy of the full Budget Report (222 pages as a .pdf) from the BBC website by clicking here.
This will open a new page or attempt to download the document to your computer.
There is some information within this document relating to the introduction of the Employment & Support Allowance (EAS) that is replacing Incapacity Benefit, Income Support & Jobseekers Allowance in October 2008.
Most notable from section 4.5 page 59,
"To ensure this increased work focus benefits current as well as future claimants,
from April 2010 all incapacity benefits claimants who started their claim before October
2008 will be required to take the Work Capability Assessment."
At the moment if you are subject to an " exemption due to "that he/she is in receipt of the highest rate care component of disability living allowance"..". With regard to an Incapacity Benefit Claim. Click here for a previous post on IB. It is not clear if this will continue when the EAS is introduced.
If you receive the "personal care component" at a lower rate, by April 2010. It is not clear How DLA interacts with this. I will try and get an answer. If however you are able to shed more light on this please email me or comment to this post.
Doing a search, not exhaustive, I found the following interesting:
Search using the key word "Disabled"
Page 57 - Section 4 (4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, Table 4.1 ,4.13, 4.14, 4.36 : Page 97 section 6.31 : Page 115 table A.22)
Search using the key word "Disability Living Allowance"
Page 136 Table A 3.1.
By all means look through it for yourself. If I have missed something please add a comment.
"Forewarned is forearmed"
You can get a copy of the full Budget Report (222 pages as a .pdf) from the BBC website by clicking here.
This will open a new page or attempt to download the document to your computer.
There is some information within this document relating to the introduction of the Employment & Support Allowance (EAS) that is replacing Incapacity Benefit, Income Support & Jobseekers Allowance in October 2008.
Most notable from section 4.5 page 59,
"To ensure this increased work focus benefits current as well as future claimants,
from April 2010 all incapacity benefits claimants who started their claim before October
2008 will be required to take the Work Capability Assessment."
At the moment if you are subject to an " exemption due to "that he/she is in receipt of the highest rate care component of disability living allowance"..". With regard to an Incapacity Benefit Claim. Click here for a previous post on IB. It is not clear if this will continue when the EAS is introduced.
If you receive the "personal care component" at a lower rate, by April 2010. It is not clear How DLA interacts with this. I will try and get an answer. If however you are able to shed more light on this please email me or comment to this post.
Doing a search, not exhaustive, I found the following interesting:
Search using the key word "Disabled"
Page 57 - Section 4 (4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, Table 4.1 ,4.13, 4.14, 4.36 : Page 97 section 6.31 : Page 115 table A.22)
Search using the key word "Disability Living Allowance"
Page 136 Table A 3.1.
By all means look through it for yourself. If I have missed something please add a comment.
"Forewarned is forearmed"
DWP "If you think our decision is wrong" Form GL24 DWP
If you are looking to understand what avenue's are open to you. Should you wish to appeal a decision for any benefit.
The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) have a information leaflet & form (GL24 DWP) that is available from the Jobcentre website.
For ease of access. You will also find this doument. In .pdf format. In the Documents section of the main website.
The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) have a information leaflet & form (GL24 DWP) that is available from the Jobcentre website.
For ease of access. You will also find this doument. In .pdf format. In the Documents section of the main website.
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
BBC News website "HIV 'hides from drugs for years'"
FYI : you maybe interested in this story from the BBC news website today.
" BBC NEWS
HIV 'hides from drugs for years'
HIV can survive the apparently effective onslaught of antiviral drugs for years by hiding away in the body's cells, research shows.
The US National Cancer Institute found low levels of dormant HIV in patients seven years after they started - and responded well to - standard therapy.
The finding confirms patients must take drugs indefinitely, and that any break runs the risk of rekindling infection.
The study features in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
People with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus
Keith Alcorn
NAM
The researchers followed 40 patients infected with HIV for seven years.
Doctors do not usually record infection levels once the number of HIV particles falls below 50 per ml of blood.
However, the NCI team used highly sensitive equipment to measure infection levels below this threshold.
They found that the virus was still present at low levels in 77% of the patients.
The research suggests that although potent antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV infection to almost undetectable levels, it cannot eradicate the virus.
Renewed risk
The researchers said that even though levels of the virus that remain are low, they are high enough to rekindle infection if treatment is interrupted.
The risk of infecting others is low, but cannot be ruled out.
They believe HIV may be harboured by CD4+ cells, which play a role in the immune system.
These cells are most likely infected before therapy was initiated and the amount of virus they produce is small.
Researcher Dr Sarah Palmer said: "It is extremely important that new drugs are developed to eradicate HIV infection as the side effects associated with long-term HIV treatment can be severe."
She also warned that failing to take prescribed medication raised the risk that HIV could begin to develop resistance, rendering future treatment less effective.
Keith Alcorn, of the HIV information service NAM, said scientists were looking at approaches to treatment that could flush out HIV from cells.
He said: "This research shows that, for the time being, people with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus.
"If treatment stops, this pool of virus provides the basis for a rapid rebound in virus levels."
Mary Lima, a treatment advisor at the HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "This study only highlights the complexity of HIV and why it's so difficult for us to find a cure.
"It's important we find out as much as possible about how HIV acts over long periods of time, so we can continue to develop new treatment strategies to tackle it.
In order to keep people with HIV well for longer, we need to attack the virus at all stages."
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7287792.stm
Published: 2008/03/11 08:03:14 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
" BBC NEWS
HIV 'hides from drugs for years'
HIV can survive the apparently effective onslaught of antiviral drugs for years by hiding away in the body's cells, research shows.
The US National Cancer Institute found low levels of dormant HIV in patients seven years after they started - and responded well to - standard therapy.
The finding confirms patients must take drugs indefinitely, and that any break runs the risk of rekindling infection.
The study features in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
People with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus
Keith Alcorn
NAM
The researchers followed 40 patients infected with HIV for seven years.
Doctors do not usually record infection levels once the number of HIV particles falls below 50 per ml of blood.
However, the NCI team used highly sensitive equipment to measure infection levels below this threshold.
They found that the virus was still present at low levels in 77% of the patients.
The research suggests that although potent antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV infection to almost undetectable levels, it cannot eradicate the virus.
Renewed risk
The researchers said that even though levels of the virus that remain are low, they are high enough to rekindle infection if treatment is interrupted.
The risk of infecting others is low, but cannot be ruled out.
They believe HIV may be harboured by CD4+ cells, which play a role in the immune system.
These cells are most likely infected before therapy was initiated and the amount of virus they produce is small.
Researcher Dr Sarah Palmer said: "It is extremely important that new drugs are developed to eradicate HIV infection as the side effects associated with long-term HIV treatment can be severe."
She also warned that failing to take prescribed medication raised the risk that HIV could begin to develop resistance, rendering future treatment less effective.
Keith Alcorn, of the HIV information service NAM, said scientists were looking at approaches to treatment that could flush out HIV from cells.
He said: "This research shows that, for the time being, people with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus.
"If treatment stops, this pool of virus provides the basis for a rapid rebound in virus levels."
Mary Lima, a treatment advisor at the HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "This study only highlights the complexity of HIV and why it's so difficult for us to find a cure.
"It's important we find out as much as possible about how HIV acts over long periods of time, so we can continue to develop new treatment strategies to tackle it.
In order to keep people with HIV well for longer, we need to attack the virus at all stages."
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7287792.stm
Published: 2008/03/11 08:03:14 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
Freedom Passes.
Just to raise this as many are facing a renewal.
Whereas the first source of information should be your local council.
You may be interested in the Freedom Pass website run on behalf of all local councils
There are some "dead links" on this site and I have emailed them. Also I found myself being cut off before I could get to talk to someone. Just be aware if you call them.
It is worth noting that
"Q. I have a disability, can I apply for a freedom pass?
A. Disabled freedom passes are issued through your local borough council - contact them to apply. The councils follow the criteria set out by the Transport Act 2000 which outlines the 7 catagories of disability used to assess eligibility for a freedom pass.
Local councils may at their discretion issue passes to disabled people that do not meet these criteria. For further details see the Department for Transport website."
this found on this website by clicking here.
Whereas the first source of information should be your local council.
You may be interested in the Freedom Pass website run on behalf of all local councils
There are some "dead links" on this site and I have emailed them. Also I found myself being cut off before I could get to talk to someone. Just be aware if you call them.
It is worth noting that
"Q. I have a disability, can I apply for a freedom pass?
A. Disabled freedom passes are issued through your local borough council - contact them to apply. The councils follow the criteria set out by the Transport Act 2000 which outlines the 7 catagories of disability used to assess eligibility for a freedom pass.
Local councils may at their discretion issue passes to disabled people that do not meet these criteria. For further details see the Department for Transport website."
this found on this website by clicking here.
Are you a member of a Trade Union
Thanks to Nigel, one of my Tcell colleagues for this. (the power of team work)
You may be a retired member of a Trade Union. Only you will know your membership status. Call them. They may still be able to help you. As a member albeit (retired) you still have access to the services of your Union. They may also have a "hardship fund" that you may be able to access.
Also if you consider work. Worthwhile joining a Trade Union to get the protections is affords. Trade Unions will only deal with issues you face after you have joined them by the way. There may also be a qualifying period before support is given. Check with the union directly.
You may be a retired member of a Trade Union. Only you will know your membership status. Call them. They may still be able to help you. As a member albeit (retired) you still have access to the services of your Union. They may also have a "hardship fund" that you may be able to access.
Also if you consider work. Worthwhile joining a Trade Union to get the protections is affords. Trade Unions will only deal with issues you face after you have joined them by the way. There may also be a qualifying period before support is given. Check with the union directly.
Monday, 10 March 2008
Education ....
Some have mentioned. That whilst they have been unable to work or secure a job because of the discrimination & stigmatism they have faced.
That they have undertaken various forms of study that they have been able to fit in around the day-to-day problems they face with their HIV.
Some have at least one, if not, more degree's.
Yet when they try an apply for any job. The fact they have this wealth of educational achievement. Once HIV is mentioned. This seems to fall by the wayside.
They also face the issue of being "over qualified" for certain jobs.
Just thought I would mention this as an issue as I haven't picked up on it so far. I is just another problem we might have to face.
Clearly this indicates that people are willing to improve themselves by undertaking such activities. Well done if you have managed to do this.
Trying to get access to education is slightly easier than trying to get a job. But can also raises some common issues.
Most educational establishments will understand you have "bad days". That this can mean long periods where you cannot study. Will be compassionate to your lack of attendance. As they will usually put in place processes to ensure you do not suffer adversely.
That they have undertaken various forms of study that they have been able to fit in around the day-to-day problems they face with their HIV.
Some have at least one, if not, more degree's.
Yet when they try an apply for any job. The fact they have this wealth of educational achievement. Once HIV is mentioned. This seems to fall by the wayside.
They also face the issue of being "over qualified" for certain jobs.
Just thought I would mention this as an issue as I haven't picked up on it so far. I is just another problem we might have to face.
Clearly this indicates that people are willing to improve themselves by undertaking such activities. Well done if you have managed to do this.
Trying to get access to education is slightly easier than trying to get a job. But can also raises some common issues.
Most educational establishments will understand you have "bad days". That this can mean long periods where you cannot study. Will be compassionate to your lack of attendance. As they will usually put in place processes to ensure you do not suffer adversely.
Saturday, 8 March 2008
Thanks to ....
On behalf of all the Disabled Community affected by the issues surrounding Disability Living Allowance.
We thank :
June Brown.
Actress - EastEnders,
for signing the 10 Downing Street petition on the Right Payment Program.
As always I link the name of our public supporters & friends to a site where you can see their body of work. Please take a moment to look.
From BBC news website ....
Concerning blood donation. I mention it as it might be of general interest.
The original story can be found http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7283541.stm
The main campaigning site is Bloodban
"Call to end gay donor blood ban
Campaigners are calling for tight restrictions on sexually active gay men donating blood to be relaxed.
The National Blood Service says clear evidence shows gay men have a greater chance of passing on HIV and other infections in donated blood.
However, campaigners say there are fewer restrictions on heterosexuals who have high-risk sex.
They want gay men to be judged individually according to their lifestyle, not as a homogenous group.
I just want to be equal - everybody should be judged on their personal activities
Russell Hirst
Currently, blood donated in the UK is screened for a number of bloodborne viruses, including HIV, and hepatitis C.
However, if the donor has been newly-infected with these viruses, there is a "window" in which the tests do not work.
To reduce the risk of contamination, the National Blood Service does not allow sexually active gay men to give blood.
There are also restrictions on intravenous drug users, or heterosexuals who admit "risky" sexual practices involving prostitutes.
Russell Hirst was denied the chance to give blood when his sister was seriously ill.
He said that the ban on gay men was a lifetime ban, while bans on heterosexuals were much shorter.
He said: "I was very shocked when my sister was ill, needed a lot of blood, and I wasn't allowed to donate blood.
"I just want to be equal. Everybody should be judged on their personal activities.
"If a gay man says that he's had unprotected sex with a man, then he should not give blood for 18 months - but I don't see why it should be a lifetime ban."
He said that the reason the ban remained in its current form was to save money for the National Blood Service.
Risk present
However, a spokesman for the National Blood Service said that the ban was in place "for good reason", and denied there were financial reasons for a ban.
"We ask men who have had sex with men not to give blood because, as a group, they are known to be at an increased risk of acquiring HIV and a number of other sexually transmitted diseases, many of which are carried in the blood.
"While safer sex, through the use of condoms, can reduce the risk of transmitting infections, it cannot reduce this risk to such low levels as to make it totally risk-free."
He said that current donations were enough to meet the UK's needs.
Russell Hirst's campaign, "Bloodban", has started a petition and intends to pass this to Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7283541.stm
Published: 2008/03/07 13:37:29 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
The original story can be found http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7283541.stm
The main campaigning site is Bloodban
"Call to end gay donor blood ban
Campaigners are calling for tight restrictions on sexually active gay men donating blood to be relaxed.
The National Blood Service says clear evidence shows gay men have a greater chance of passing on HIV and other infections in donated blood.
However, campaigners say there are fewer restrictions on heterosexuals who have high-risk sex.
They want gay men to be judged individually according to their lifestyle, not as a homogenous group.
I just want to be equal - everybody should be judged on their personal activities
Russell Hirst
Currently, blood donated in the UK is screened for a number of bloodborne viruses, including HIV, and hepatitis C.
However, if the donor has been newly-infected with these viruses, there is a "window" in which the tests do not work.
To reduce the risk of contamination, the National Blood Service does not allow sexually active gay men to give blood.
There are also restrictions on intravenous drug users, or heterosexuals who admit "risky" sexual practices involving prostitutes.
Russell Hirst was denied the chance to give blood when his sister was seriously ill.
He said that the ban on gay men was a lifetime ban, while bans on heterosexuals were much shorter.
He said: "I was very shocked when my sister was ill, needed a lot of blood, and I wasn't allowed to donate blood.
"I just want to be equal. Everybody should be judged on their personal activities.
"If a gay man says that he's had unprotected sex with a man, then he should not give blood for 18 months - but I don't see why it should be a lifetime ban."
He said that the reason the ban remained in its current form was to save money for the National Blood Service.
Risk present
However, a spokesman for the National Blood Service said that the ban was in place "for good reason", and denied there were financial reasons for a ban.
"We ask men who have had sex with men not to give blood because, as a group, they are known to be at an increased risk of acquiring HIV and a number of other sexually transmitted diseases, many of which are carried in the blood.
"While safer sex, through the use of condoms, can reduce the risk of transmitting infections, it cannot reduce this risk to such low levels as to make it totally risk-free."
He said that current donations were enough to meet the UK's needs.
Russell Hirst's campaign, "Bloodban", has started a petition and intends to pass this to Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7283541.stm
Published: 2008/03/07 13:37:29 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
From the House of Commons, recieved today
Work & Pensions Committee. From the Clerk.
I received a response to my letter this morning it reads:
"Thank you for your letter of 16th February to Terry Rooney MP. Chairman of the Work & Pensions Committee, enclosing your letter to Anne McGuire MP, Minister for Disabled People, concerning the review of Disability Living Allowance.
I will circulate your letter to the Committee and I will be in touch if the Committee decides to pursue this matter
Signed by the Clerk of the Committee"
So we are making more people aware.
Letter is on the process of being upload to the documents section of the main web site.
So as not to fall foul of identity fraud. Mindful of the Human Rights Act. I have removed identities on the letter. The name of MP's are already in the public domain & thus expempt from this consideration.
I received a response to my letter this morning it reads:
"Thank you for your letter of 16th February to Terry Rooney MP. Chairman of the Work & Pensions Committee, enclosing your letter to Anne McGuire MP, Minister for Disabled People, concerning the review of Disability Living Allowance.
I will circulate your letter to the Committee and I will be in touch if the Committee decides to pursue this matter
Signed by the Clerk of the Committee"
So we are making more people aware.
Letter is on the process of being upload to the documents section of the main web site.
So as not to fall foul of identity fraud. Mindful of the Human Rights Act. I have removed identities on the letter. The name of MP's are already in the public domain & thus expempt from this consideration.
Friday, 7 March 2008
RNIB advice that is helpful to us all
The Royal National Insitiute of Blind People have published on their website.
The RNIB can only give INDIVIDUAL advice to those with SERIOUS SIGHT LOSS. Please do not approach them otherwise. Like many they have limited resources.
Some advice & guidance on
Attendance Allowance
Advisor's guide _ how to claim Attendance Allowance - tips for advisors.
Disability Living Allowance
Challenging a Decision about DLA & Attendance Allowance
Though this advice is from a "blind person's" view point. The central themes & processes apply to anyone claiming either allowance.
I hope this helps and empowers you with your claim.
Thanks to Nigel (of the Tcell team) for his research here.
The RNIB can only give INDIVIDUAL advice to those with SERIOUS SIGHT LOSS. Please do not approach them otherwise. Like many they have limited resources.
Some advice & guidance on
Attendance Allowance
Advisor's guide _ how to claim Attendance Allowance - tips for advisors.
Disability Living Allowance
Challenging a Decision about DLA & Attendance Allowance
Though this advice is from a "blind person's" view point. The central themes & processes apply to anyone claiming either allowance.
I hope this helps and empowers you with your claim.
Thanks to Nigel (of the Tcell team) for his research here.
Comments are important....
Thank you to those that are contributing to this cause. At the bottom of every entry in the blog you will see the word "Comments" with the number of people who have left comments on a particular entry.
I would encourage you to read this.
I am always aware that some of this can seem frightening. I apologise for that. The intention is not to scare. However I cannot in all good conscience be anything by honest. This is a blog and as is the nature of the beast . It means it is based, largely, on the personal opinions .
Truth can be upsetting. However when the truth of a situation is revealed. It empowers us to make a postitive step forward. Difficult though that first step might be.
If you have been worried or upset by any content. Please feel free to email me. I won't be offended by any constructive criticism you have to make.
This is as much about you as it is me.
I would encourage you to read this.
I am always aware that some of this can seem frightening. I apologise for that. The intention is not to scare. However I cannot in all good conscience be anything by honest. This is a blog and as is the nature of the beast . It means it is based, largely, on the personal opinions .
Truth can be upsetting. However when the truth of a situation is revealed. It empowers us to make a postitive step forward. Difficult though that first step might be.
If you have been worried or upset by any content. Please feel free to email me. I won't be offended by any constructive criticism you have to make.
This is as much about you as it is me.
U+
Picked up from a NAM email. I hope they won't mind me replicating it here
"U+ is a new magazine for gay men with HIV produced by Terrence Higgins Trust. The magazine deals with the personal aspects of living with HIV.
Each issue covers a theme in depth and issue 2, which is out now, is all about recreational drugs. It gives clear, practical information to help you make your own choices. Topics covered include myths and facts about drugs, "preparing and repairing" for a big weekend and tips on reducing your drug use. We ask whether GHB is wrecking the gay scene, and cover the interactions between recreational drugs and combination therapy.
U+ is available in many gay bars, HIV organisations and HIV clinics. If you would like to be sent a copy, email your address to u+@tht.org.uk "
"U+ is a new magazine for gay men with HIV produced by Terrence Higgins Trust. The magazine deals with the personal aspects of living with HIV.
Each issue covers a theme in depth and issue 2, which is out now, is all about recreational drugs. It gives clear, practical information to help you make your own choices. Topics covered include myths and facts about drugs, "preparing and repairing" for a big weekend and tips on reducing your drug use. We ask whether GHB is wrecking the gay scene, and cover the interactions between recreational drugs and combination therapy.
U+ is available in many gay bars, HIV organisations and HIV clinics. If you would like to be sent a copy, email your address to u+@tht.org.uk "
Thursday, 6 March 2008
Info
http://www.tcell.org.uk will direct people to this site initially as another temporary web address. Of course http://www.hivbenefits.co.uk with always and continue to take you to the main website.
Eventually, when the organisation is sorted. These things take time. It will direct you the main site for our group. For which this is the first campaign/issue we are dealing/running with.
We want to create a brand around what we do. One that is respected. But more about his later....
Any questions as always please feel free to email me to john@hivbenefits.co.uk
Eventually, when the organisation is sorted. These things take time. It will direct you the main site for our group. For which this is the first campaign/issue we are dealing/running with.
We want to create a brand around what we do. One that is respected. But more about his later....
Any questions as always please feel free to email me to john@hivbenefits.co.uk
10 Downing Street Petitions..
There are two petitions I want to bring to your attention. If you want to help our cause please sign both.
10 Downing Street petition on the Right Payment Program.
This is the primary petition I would encourage you to sign. It is the one signed by the supporters mentioned on this page.
Looking at the existing DLA petitions. They were all either on a specific point of the DLA or for a specific medical condition.
As we are trying to achieve fairness for all, including ourselves. That none of the existing petitions mention the impact of the review. To also lend publicity to our cause.
I have started our own petition.
It can be found at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/DLAEquity/
I know these things if high in number can become lost in the mire. But our petition is unique in content.
Thanks.
10 Downing Street petition on the Right Payment Program.
This is the primary petition I would encourage you to sign. It is the one signed by the supporters mentioned on this page.
Looking at the existing DLA petitions. They were all either on a specific point of the DLA or for a specific medical condition.
As we are trying to achieve fairness for all, including ourselves. That none of the existing petitions mention the impact of the review. To also lend publicity to our cause.
I have started our own petition.
It can be found at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/DLAEquity/
I know these things if high in number can become lost in the mire. But our petition is unique in content.
Thanks.
Not another blog John!
I have started another blog - Johns Background & Personal Thoughts.
I wanted to share the experience & lessons I have learnt personally as a result of starting this blog & website. The "journey" of my personal growth. I hope it inspires.
It is a place for the information not directly relevant to the DLA review. On that score, I will always post here.
However if you want to know why I started the blog, what motivates me regarding this etc.. this blog covers that.
I am a great believer in empowerment. Of encouraging and empowering people to deal and take ownership of the issues they face. I understand that not everyone can do this. Thats partly why this site exists. But where they can I hope this site helps.
If this inspires one person with the confidence to deal with their own issues than I will have achieved my goal.
The reality of the situation is. With funding being cut. With existing services completely stretched. It maybe that you have to rely on yourself more as time goes by. Channel your feelings, fear & frustration, into empowering yourself & others. You will feel better & it is very rewarding. It will certainly improve your personal well-being.
I wanted to share the experience & lessons I have learnt personally as a result of starting this blog & website. The "journey" of my personal growth. I hope it inspires.
It is a place for the information not directly relevant to the DLA review. On that score, I will always post here.
However if you want to know why I started the blog, what motivates me regarding this etc.. this blog covers that.
I am a great believer in empowerment. Of encouraging and empowering people to deal and take ownership of the issues they face. I understand that not everyone can do this. Thats partly why this site exists. But where they can I hope this site helps.
If this inspires one person with the confidence to deal with their own issues than I will have achieved my goal.
The reality of the situation is. With funding being cut. With existing services completely stretched. It maybe that you have to rely on yourself more as time goes by. Channel your feelings, fear & frustration, into empowering yourself & others. You will feel better & it is very rewarding. It will certainly improve your personal well-being.
Spreading the word .....
The HIV community is not alone in this cause. What we do through this web portal. Has a direct bearing and the experience & information given. Can and should be used by the wider disabled community. We are all in the same "boat" here.
To that end.
I interact with the wider community via The Benefits & Work website. .
I have a forum on the site - DLA Review & the HIV+ Community, How our community is coping. At time of posting this forum has recieved 1000 hits.
Please take some time to familarise yourself with this website.
Thanks to Steve the owner of the site for his continued good will and support.
This site is a resource that you should use if you are trying to empower yourself to deal with any benefit issue. It does cost. However it is a good investment. We don't cover everything here, in detail. Also I will not replicate any of Steve's work on here for free. He deserves our support.
To that end.
I interact with the wider community via The Benefits & Work website. .
I have a forum on the site - DLA Review & the HIV+ Community, How our community is coping. At time of posting this forum has recieved 1000 hits.
Please take some time to familarise yourself with this website.
Thanks to Steve the owner of the site for his continued good will and support.
This site is a resource that you should use if you are trying to empower yourself to deal with any benefit issue. It does cost. However it is a good investment. We don't cover everything here, in detail. Also I will not replicate any of Steve's work on here for free. He deserves our support.
Thanks to ..
On behalf of all the Disabled Community affected by the issues surrounding Disability Living Allowance.
We thank :
Simon Callow, C.B.E.
Actor & Writer.
for signing the 10 Downing Street petition on the Right Payment Program.
As always I link the name of our public supporters & friends to a site where you can see their body of work. Please take a moment to look.
We thank :
Simon Callow, C.B.E.
Actor & Writer.
for signing the 10 Downing Street petition on the Right Payment Program.
As always I link the name of our public supporters & friends to a site where you can see their body of work. Please take a moment to look.
Our request for information held by the DWP using the DPA
A few weeks ago, under the Auspices of the Data Protection Act. We requested that the Department for Works & Pensions (DWP) provide us with all clerical & computer records held on us in relation to Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
We received a response today.
They will "issue the records" as soon as possible and within 40 days of our request.
They have made no charge for this thus far.
We received a response today.
They will "issue the records" as soon as possible and within 40 days of our request.
They have made no charge for this thus far.
Wednesday, 5 March 2008
If some one cares for you ...
If you have someone that cares for you or you care for someone.
You may find the Archive of the web chat with Anne McGuire , Minister for the Disabled, interesting.
During the usual course of research this cropped up so though I would "throw it out" if your interested.
You may find the Archive of the web chat with Anne McGuire , Minister for the Disabled, interesting.
During the usual course of research this cropped up so though I would "throw it out" if your interested.
Supporting our cause ....
Thank you to the following who are lending there support to raise the awareness of our issue. In pursuit of drawing attention to the impact this review means for us all.
Kate Williams.
Actress - Widows, She's Out, EastEnders. .
Che Walker.
Writer & Director .
Race Davis.
Actress - Roughnecks , EastEnders, Men Behaving Badly .
Daniel Kramer.
Director - Stage production of Angels in America .
I only post names of "famous faces" where the member of our team who has access to this network confirms the identity of the name. Thanks Jim.
If you are a famous name supporting this campaign via the DLA RRP Petition on the 10 Downing Street Web site. And we have not thanked you directly or given you mention.
Please drop an email to me (john@hivbenefits.co.uk) to confirm your identity and consent to allowing us to draw attention to your valuable support on this blog.
Of course, we thank everyone. In which ever way they can contribute to this campaign. For there valuable support.
Kate Williams.
Actress - Widows, She's Out, EastEnders. .
Che Walker.
Writer & Director .
Race Davis.
Actress - Roughnecks , EastEnders, Men Behaving Badly .
Daniel Kramer.
Director - Stage production of Angels in America .
I only post names of "famous faces" where the member of our team who has access to this network confirms the identity of the name. Thanks Jim.
If you are a famous name supporting this campaign via the DLA RRP Petition on the 10 Downing Street Web site. And we have not thanked you directly or given you mention.
Please drop an email to me (john@hivbenefits.co.uk) to confirm your identity and consent to allowing us to draw attention to your valuable support on this blog.
Of course, we thank everyone. In which ever way they can contribute to this campaign. For there valuable support.
Tuesday, 4 March 2008
KVN Forum meeting this evening.
The KVN Forum.
This entry concerns patients accessing the HIV services the Chelsea & Westminster Hospital. Namely - Kobler Centre, Victoria & Nkosi Johnson Clinics.
However I post it for general consumption under the auspices of sharing experience.
It was good to see so many at a meeting given over to the DLA issues for patients of these clinics.
Many questions were raised. Of course they encapsulate certain key themes, whats happening?, how do I get help with my form? What will I do if my income falls? etc .... Of course many are anxious & scared.
Some, including myself, tried to give the group the benefit of what we had learned. It is important to note that we and I are in the same boat as everyone. I am not lawyer or a welfare rights worker and cannot tell you or help you to fill in the forms you recieve. All we can do, using the tools at our disposal - Patient Forum groups, Internet, Media etc .., is to share our collective experience to further understand the "picture" here and make the "powers that be" aware.
Existing services are thin on the ground and over stretched. Not everyone is going to be able to get direct help. Whilst this needs to be addressed it must not distract from the core process of providing the information.
In many cases I am afraid. It maybe a case of having to "get off your arse" and do the work yourself. Use this site and others to get the information and research the answers to your questions.
That is the honest truth of it unfortunately.
Engage with your HIV services, take part and raise this at your treatment center's & it's Patient forum. Use these forums and this site to share your experience so we can all learn.
If you need more time. Ring the DWP and ask.
SPEAK to your HIV Consultant when you get the DBD551 form.
Personally I would like to have the time to help people on an individual basis. However that stops me being able to undertake the research that is of general use to us all. Of course I am ill myself & do have a family life. So if you have come up to me at a meeting and I have been unable to give you time or the help you seek. Please don't feel offended. Really the best way you can help is to contribute to the wider agenda use this portal thats whats it here for.
I understand the the forum is pushing back it agenda for the year. To facilitate further meetings on this issue.
It was apparent that many do not have internet access. Positive Nation should go some way to covering that audience.
As mentioned. A meeting is taking place tomorrow for the Kensington & Chelsea HIV Service Users Forum from 6pm to 8pm. The venue is The River House, Rutland Grove, Hammersmith, London W6 9FE.
This entry concerns patients accessing the HIV services the Chelsea & Westminster Hospital. Namely - Kobler Centre, Victoria & Nkosi Johnson Clinics.
However I post it for general consumption under the auspices of sharing experience.
It was good to see so many at a meeting given over to the DLA issues for patients of these clinics.
Many questions were raised. Of course they encapsulate certain key themes, whats happening?, how do I get help with my form? What will I do if my income falls? etc .... Of course many are anxious & scared.
Some, including myself, tried to give the group the benefit of what we had learned. It is important to note that we and I are in the same boat as everyone. I am not lawyer or a welfare rights worker and cannot tell you or help you to fill in the forms you recieve. All we can do, using the tools at our disposal - Patient Forum groups, Internet, Media etc .., is to share our collective experience to further understand the "picture" here and make the "powers that be" aware.
Existing services are thin on the ground and over stretched. Not everyone is going to be able to get direct help. Whilst this needs to be addressed it must not distract from the core process of providing the information.
In many cases I am afraid. It maybe a case of having to "get off your arse" and do the work yourself. Use this site and others to get the information and research the answers to your questions.
That is the honest truth of it unfortunately.
Engage with your HIV services, take part and raise this at your treatment center's & it's Patient forum. Use these forums and this site to share your experience so we can all learn.
If you need more time. Ring the DWP and ask.
SPEAK to your HIV Consultant when you get the DBD551 form.
Personally I would like to have the time to help people on an individual basis. However that stops me being able to undertake the research that is of general use to us all. Of course I am ill myself & do have a family life. So if you have come up to me at a meeting and I have been unable to give you time or the help you seek. Please don't feel offended. Really the best way you can help is to contribute to the wider agenda use this portal thats whats it here for.
I understand the the forum is pushing back it agenda for the year. To facilitate further meetings on this issue.
It was apparent that many do not have internet access. Positive Nation should go some way to covering that audience.
As mentioned. A meeting is taking place tomorrow for the Kensington & Chelsea HIV Service Users Forum from 6pm to 8pm. The venue is The River House, Rutland Grove, Hammersmith, London W6 9FE.
Website is live again.
The move was successful. The blog is hosted separately so if the main site is down this should still be live (and vice versa)
Any issues etc. As always email us and let us know.
Any issues etc. As always email us and let us know.
Problems with main website
We are aware that there maybe problems with the main web site. So far we have hosted it on the webspace provided by our ISP. This has a limitation as far as data traffic allowed.
To resolve this. We have taken up a web hosting package from a company we have used for many years. This will cost £7.99 per month for the time being. Of course technically this does bring additional benefits to us.
Please bear with us - we are undertaking this activity at present. I will post when the issue is resolved.
It is unfortunate than any activity such as this does have a financial impact. We will seek in the future to raise the necessary funds to cover these expenses. In a manner that maintains our independance at ALL times avoiding "conflicts of interest. Though I don't expect the funds needed to maintain our ongoing operation to be particularly high.
Please be assured we will keep full accounts. And when funds are available I will seek to recover these incidental running costs.
Though clearly our campaign is our No.1 priority at the moment.
I want our community to see that the team that leads this , and & any future campaign. Does so in an open, honest & transparent way. I hope this entry demonstrates this philosophy adequately.
To resolve this. We have taken up a web hosting package from a company we have used for many years. This will cost £7.99 per month for the time being. Of course technically this does bring additional benefits to us.
Please bear with us - we are undertaking this activity at present. I will post when the issue is resolved.
It is unfortunate than any activity such as this does have a financial impact. We will seek in the future to raise the necessary funds to cover these expenses. In a manner that maintains our independance at ALL times avoiding "conflicts of interest. Though I don't expect the funds needed to maintain our ongoing operation to be particularly high.
Please be assured we will keep full accounts. And when funds are available I will seek to recover these incidental running costs.
Though clearly our campaign is our No.1 priority at the moment.
I want our community to see that the team that leads this , and & any future campaign. Does so in an open, honest & transparent way. I hope this entry demonstrates this philosophy adequately.
A letter recieved today....
I have written to many people about our campaign for equity & fairness. Including government ministers.
Full details are found, at the moment, on the about us page on the main web. I keep this diary so you can see the work done by the team on our behalf.
Anne McGuire, Minister for the Disabled, has responded.
Albeit through a member of the DWP correspondence team as it is "not always possible for her to reply personally to everyone who writes to her". I will be uploading the response to the documents page on the web today.
To highlight some points
I note that they included my NI number on the response. Though I didn't give it in my initial letter. I assume they have pulled my file. It will be interesting to see what happens to my claim going forward.
Full details are found, at the moment, on the about us page on the main web. I keep this diary so you can see the work done by the team on our behalf.
Anne McGuire, Minister for the Disabled, has responded.
Albeit through a member of the DWP correspondence team as it is "not always possible for her to reply personally to everyone who writes to her". I will be uploading the response to the documents page on the web today.
To highlight some points
- Applies to claims awarded over three years ago under "Special Rules".
- Follows the recomendations of the DLAAB "Special Rules Study" after discussions with various groups representing disabled people. Terrence Higgins Trust in our case.
- It was agreed that the initial enquiry. To medical health personnel. Would be addressed to the HIV consultant.
- With only ONE medical report requested at the outset.
- The issues I raised with respect to the introduction of the Employment & Support Allowance warrant a separate reply ?????
I note that they included my NI number on the response. Though I didn't give it in my initial letter. I assume they have pulled my file. It will be interesting to see what happens to my claim going forward.
New experience ... thank you.
Thank you for this. I fully understand & respect your need for confidentiality.
"TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: (PLEASE KEEP E MAIL ADDRESS CONFIDENTIAL)
DISABILITY LIVING ALLOWANCE REVIEW FOR CHRONICALLY SICK:
I am currently undergoing a review of my Disability Living Allowance. I was diagnosed with AIDS in 1991 with Karposis Sarcoma skin Cancer, and had Tubercolosis in 1994 for which I had one year of treatment. I have been taking anti-retroviral medication since 1991 and suffer many side effects as a result of taking 21 pills per day; my quality of life is poor, the side effects I have to suffer and try to manage are numerous and very unpleasant and I am unable to work as a result.
I just about manage financially on my current benefits; i'm able to keep my heating on during the winter to keep warm, buy the food I need to maintain good health etc however, this DLA review is having a negative effect on me due to the anxiety and worry of having my money reduced or even stopped, and a fear of going into poverty. My mental and physical health is suffering, as if I didn't have enough to cope with already.
I am very concerned about the 'Decision Makers' at the DWP; how much do they know about HIV/AIDS? Are they medically qualified and knowledgeable enough to make such important decisions about people with my condition? I doubt it very much.
I am thankfully one of the very lucky people who has survived an AIDS diagnosis in the early 90s and owing to the excellent care and support I receive at my Hospital and my own great determination to maintain body weight and manage illness and pain, I am still living, but now feel that the 'rug is being pulled from under my feet'.
Shame on this so called 'Socialist' government for targeting those with chronic illnesses such as AIDS and Cancer, when there are thousands of healthy people in this country receiving benefits who are working illegally etc. I intend to write to my MP to make my feelings known, and I ask readers to sign this petition to give support to all of us at this difficult time, thanks.
http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/DLA-Review/ "
This was also submitted to Positive Nation. I hope they won't mind it appearing here. It does so at the authors request. Also those that do not have easy access to the magazine can keep in the loop.
You can subscribe & read back issues of the Positive Nation magazine online.
"TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: (PLEASE KEEP E MAIL ADDRESS CONFIDENTIAL)
DISABILITY LIVING ALLOWANCE REVIEW FOR CHRONICALLY SICK:
I am currently undergoing a review of my Disability Living Allowance. I was diagnosed with AIDS in 1991 with Karposis Sarcoma skin Cancer, and had Tubercolosis in 1994 for which I had one year of treatment. I have been taking anti-retroviral medication since 1991 and suffer many side effects as a result of taking 21 pills per day; my quality of life is poor, the side effects I have to suffer and try to manage are numerous and very unpleasant and I am unable to work as a result.
I just about manage financially on my current benefits; i'm able to keep my heating on during the winter to keep warm, buy the food I need to maintain good health etc however, this DLA review is having a negative effect on me due to the anxiety and worry of having my money reduced or even stopped, and a fear of going into poverty. My mental and physical health is suffering, as if I didn't have enough to cope with already.
I am very concerned about the 'Decision Makers' at the DWP; how much do they know about HIV/AIDS? Are they medically qualified and knowledgeable enough to make such important decisions about people with my condition? I doubt it very much.
I am thankfully one of the very lucky people who has survived an AIDS diagnosis in the early 90s and owing to the excellent care and support I receive at my Hospital and my own great determination to maintain body weight and manage illness and pain, I am still living, but now feel that the 'rug is being pulled from under my feet'.
Shame on this so called 'Socialist' government for targeting those with chronic illnesses such as AIDS and Cancer, when there are thousands of healthy people in this country receiving benefits who are working illegally etc. I intend to write to my MP to make my feelings known, and I ask readers to sign this petition to give support to all of us at this difficult time, thanks.
http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/DLA-Review/ "
This was also submitted to Positive Nation. I hope they won't mind it appearing here. It does so at the authors request. Also those that do not have easy access to the magazine can keep in the loop.
You can subscribe & read back issues of the Positive Nation magazine online.
Monday, 3 March 2008
Polls on this site...
It is useful, to collect some data from you. This data is collected anonymously and with regard to your confidentiality.
It helps guide our campaigning & gauge the impact within the community.
I think these three cover most bases and I will keep to just them. Please use them.
Note. Please keep all your paperwork
Thanks
It helps guide our campaigning & gauge the impact within the community.
I think these three cover most bases and I will keep to just them. Please use them.
Note. Please keep all your paperwork
Thanks
Thanks to ....
Jim, for his efforts regarding his media contacts. Some well known faces are now supporting all of us, regardless of disability. In the struggle we face with this review.
I have a forum on the Benefits & Work website - DLA review & the HIV+ Community. So far 634 hits.
I posted this,
"There is a 10 Downing Street petition on the RRP found at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/DLA-Review/ .
Thanks to a member of our campaigning group we are starting to see some famous names lend their support to ALL of us who are going through the Disability Living Allowance review, regardless of our disability.
Some of us are more vocal than others than this. We don't mind. We know not everyone for whatever reason, most likely health, can contribute. You can feel isolated, scared & worried.
I hope this gives you some comfort that you do not face this alone.
At time of posting
Ann Mitchell
Widows / She's Out / recently, stag production of Angels in America and EastEnders
Hannah Waterman
New Tricks / EastEnders
You will find them at the bottom of the page.
Of course not only on behalf of http://www.hivbenefits.co.uk but our wider community I have passed our thanks on."
Thanks also to YOU. Word of mouth it one of our key tools here to get the powers that be to wake up to this.
I have a forum on the Benefits & Work website - DLA review & the HIV+ Community. So far 634 hits.
I posted this,
"There is a 10 Downing Street petition on the RRP found at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/DLA-Review/ .
Thanks to a member of our campaigning group we are starting to see some famous names lend their support to ALL of us who are going through the Disability Living Allowance review, regardless of our disability.
Some of us are more vocal than others than this. We don't mind. We know not everyone for whatever reason, most likely health, can contribute. You can feel isolated, scared & worried.
I hope this gives you some comfort that you do not face this alone.
At time of posting
Ann Mitchell
Widows / She's Out / recently, stag production of Angels in America and EastEnders
Hannah Waterman
New Tricks / EastEnders
You will find them at the bottom of the page.
Of course not only on behalf of http://www.hivbenefits.co.uk but our wider community I have passed our thanks on."
Thanks also to YOU. Word of mouth it one of our key tools here to get the powers that be to wake up to this.
MP sample letter.
Some of you asked for a sample letter for your MP. I have put something up under Documents on the main site http://www.hivbenefits.co.uk..
This is very much a sample letter. Feel free to amend and edit as you see fit. If it inspires your own letter than great!
If you can put our case more succinctly I welcome your input.
This is very much a sample letter. Feel free to amend and edit as you see fit. If it inspires your own letter than great!
If you can put our case more succinctly I welcome your input.
Saturday, 1 March 2008
MAKE SURE YOU READ THIS ....
All,
Steve has now put together guidance on background to this review & the processes we can follow if we need to challange our reviews.
This is a page "Guidance - READ THIS" on the main website http://www.hivbenefits.co.uk . Clicking on any of the text here will open a new window to it for you.
ALSO HELP Positive Nation if you can as described in the post below this.
Steve has now put together guidance on background to this review & the processes we can follow if we need to challange our reviews.
This is a page "Guidance - READ THIS" on the main website http://www.hivbenefits.co.uk . Clicking on any of the text here will open a new window to it for you.
ALSO HELP Positive Nation if you can as described in the post below this.
Friday, 29 February 2008
Positive Nation needs your letters
OK, just got off the phone with Positive Nation. They are running a feature on the DLA reviews in the next edition which goes to press next week.
What they have asked for is letters from people affected by this - you don't have to identify yourself, they will change the name or publish suitable stuff anonymously.
Email how you feel or what's happened to you to editor@positivenation.co.uk
It looks like most people affected by this are older gay men living in London - is there anyone from outside London or who isn't a gay man that can add something to the debate.
Word is that many of people reviewed are having their DLA withdrawn totally, so make sure that you discuss this with your HIV specialist BEFORE they are asked to fill in the review questionnaire.
What they have asked for is letters from people affected by this - you don't have to identify yourself, they will change the name or publish suitable stuff anonymously.
Email how you feel or what's happened to you to editor@positivenation.co.uk
It looks like most people affected by this are older gay men living in London - is there anyone from outside London or who isn't a gay man that can add something to the debate.
Word is that many of people reviewed are having their DLA withdrawn totally, so make sure that you discuss this with your HIV specialist BEFORE they are asked to fill in the review questionnaire.
From Benefits & Work.
Given the nature of this I am sorry to drown the previous post so soon. Please make sure you read the post below this as it is good news.
If you need more info go to the Benefits & Work website.
I told the webmaster I wouldn't copy anything he authored. But this is important and I am sure he won't mind. You may also have received it if you are on the email list anyway. Go to the main B&W website for the detail.
Just recieved in the email :
"Will you challenge the benefits millionaire maker?
28.02.08
Dear Reader,
The number of calls and emails we're receiving from claimants who are terrified about what's going to happen to them is reaching unmanageable proportions. Every new government statement on incapacity benefits seems to push more people into a state of panic.
We believe it's time to challenge what is almost a campaign of incitement to hatred of incapacity benefit claimants currently being waged by both labour and the conservatives. We're starting with an attempt to have David 'Benefits' Freud - the benefits millionaire maker - investigated by the parliamentary ombudsman. But we're barred from making a complaint, so we really do need your help.
In addition, a warning that the Benefits and Work website will be offline for a few days in about a fortnight as we install our new look.
Plus, news that the first lie detectors have been installed in Jobcentre Plus offices, Atos Healthcare have taken over their first GPs surgery, drug users aren't really going to be forced to have treatment or lose benefits and new guidance has been issued to GPs providing DLA evidence.
Oh, and there's another article about 'Benefits' Freud.
Next month we plan to look at which voluntary sector agencies are colluding in the war of terror being waged against claimants and what can be done about them.
Meanwhile, there are still places available on our Employment and Support Allowance training day on April 3rd in Bristol."
If you need more info go to the Benefits & Work website.
I told the webmaster I wouldn't copy anything he authored. But this is important and I am sure he won't mind. You may also have received it if you are on the email list anyway. Go to the main B&W website for the detail.
Just recieved in the email :
"Will you challenge the benefits millionaire maker?
28.02.08
Dear Reader,
The number of calls and emails we're receiving from claimants who are terrified about what's going to happen to them is reaching unmanageable proportions. Every new government statement on incapacity benefits seems to push more people into a state of panic.
We believe it's time to challenge what is almost a campaign of incitement to hatred of incapacity benefit claimants currently being waged by both labour and the conservatives. We're starting with an attempt to have David 'Benefits' Freud - the benefits millionaire maker - investigated by the parliamentary ombudsman. But we're barred from making a complaint, so we really do need your help.
In addition, a warning that the Benefits and Work website will be offline for a few days in about a fortnight as we install our new look.
Plus, news that the first lie detectors have been installed in Jobcentre Plus offices, Atos Healthcare have taken over their first GPs surgery, drug users aren't really going to be forced to have treatment or lose benefits and new guidance has been issued to GPs providing DLA evidence.
Oh, and there's another article about 'Benefits' Freud.
Next month we plan to look at which voluntary sector agencies are colluding in the war of terror being waged against claimants and what can be done about them.
Meanwhile, there are still places available on our Employment and Support Allowance training day on April 3rd in Bristol."
Some good news for the weekend.
Click here for the initial posting on this earlier in the blog. The "close relative" has been re-awarded DLA at the "higher rate".
This is the second positive outcome I have heard about.
More info is on the way and I will post it when I get it.
I know that reading into this subject it can be quite depressing. We are all uncertain as to our outcomes. But this is good and hopeful news.
Maybe our coming together as a community is having some effect. Maybe we will never know.
Either way its a good start to the weekend !
This is the second positive outcome I have heard about.
More info is on the way and I will post it when I get it.
I know that reading into this subject it can be quite depressing. We are all uncertain as to our outcomes. But this is good and hopeful news.
Maybe our coming together as a community is having some effect. Maybe we will never know.
Either way its a good start to the weekend !
Information on AIDS/HIV on DWP.
I strongly recommend you read the detail on the DWP here.
Click here to navigate to the DWP Corporate Medical Group HIV/Aids information.
You may find this useful as to understanding how the DWP interpret with in the bands - Mild / Moderate / Severe Functional Restriction. Found in the Care and Mobility Considerations.
This table on "Most common disabling conditions" is also worth a look.
My partner is also going to add some downloadable charts to the document page. These are a flow charts showing the dependancies between the DLA & other benefits. There are two, one for under 50's one for over.
Click here to navigate to the DWP Corporate Medical Group HIV/Aids information.
You may find this useful as to understanding how the DWP interpret with in the bands - Mild / Moderate / Severe Functional Restriction. Found in the Care and Mobility Considerations.
This table on "Most common disabling conditions" is also worth a look.
My partner is also going to add some downloadable charts to the document page. These are a flow charts showing the dependancies between the DLA & other benefits. There are two, one for under 50's one for over.
I need the person who ...
Was at the meeting on Monday. Was sat a few rows behind me. Had a White T Shirt on.
He/You spoke about having to give up a highly paid job etc.
Can you get in touch with me please.
Thanks,
john@hivbenefits.co.uk
He/You spoke about having to give up a highly paid job etc.
Can you get in touch with me please.
Thanks,
john@hivbenefits.co.uk
Thursday, 28 February 2008
Disability and Carers Service Performance Standards 2007-08
Want to know the standard of service the DCS is working to in processing your claim.
Click here.
Click here.
Some thanks are due...
Thank you to
Peter of The Eddie Surman Trust. And the friend who facilitated the introduction.
I would ask you to take some time and navigate to the trust by clicking here. You can read Eddie's Letter by clicking here.
I declare an interest here I have donated to this charity in the past.
The Wharfside Patients Forum. Thank you all for allowing us to visit your meeting this evening. I found the meeting very interesting and learnt much. Always supportive and very much appreciated.
Peter of The Eddie Surman Trust. And the friend who facilitated the introduction.
I would ask you to take some time and navigate to the trust by clicking here. You can read Eddie's Letter by clicking here.
I declare an interest here I have donated to this charity in the past.
The Wharfside Patients Forum. Thank you all for allowing us to visit your meeting this evening. I found the meeting very interesting and learnt much. Always supportive and very much appreciated.
New page on website.
Partner has added another page where we will place key documents for download. He is currently working to get the documents to open in a browser. Though we believe this is not working properly because of the hosting we are presently using.
It should however download the documents to your machine for you to open.
The powerpoint presentation from the NAM/THT meeting is now there. It has been converted to pdf so many will be able to read it.
We use up to date antivirus software. That said. Please make sure your Mac/PC has current and up to date anti virus software also.
Files in the pdf format can be opened using the Preview application on an Apple Mac. If you have a Mac/PC you can get Adobe Reader (pdf reader) free from http://www.adobe.com
Though most recent machines will have this installed already.
It should however download the documents to your machine for you to open.
The powerpoint presentation from the NAM/THT meeting is now there. It has been converted to pdf so many will be able to read it.
We use up to date antivirus software. That said. Please make sure your Mac/PC has current and up to date anti virus software also.
Files in the pdf format can be opened using the Preview application on an Apple Mac. If you have a Mac/PC you can get Adobe Reader (pdf reader) free from http://www.adobe.com
Though most recent machines will have this installed already.
DWP Consultation.
The DWP have started a public consultation entitled :
Helping people achieve their full potential : Improving Specialist Disability Employment Services.
You might find this of interest and can submit your comments. Click the title to go to the consultation.
If you want to see what is new at the DWP Click here
Helping people achieve their full potential : Improving Specialist Disability Employment Services.
You might find this of interest and can submit your comments. Click the title to go to the consultation.
If you want to see what is new at the DWP Click here
Government announced today ...
If you want to keep abreast of issues affecting benefits. I would advise you to subscribe to the email list on the Benefits & Work website.
New measures being announced today about getting people back to work.
Minsters have been on BBC News 24 today.
Click here for story on BBC News website.
Here it is in text,
Private firms to find people work
Private firms and voluntary groups are to be offered cash incentives to get unemployed people into work for longer.
The changes will affect about 250,000 long-term unemployed people and all new claimants for sickness benefits.
Cabinet minister James Purnell said a "radical blueprint" was needed to get people into "sustainable" jobs.
Meanwhile an MPs' committee has found that 40% of jobseekers allowance claimants who find a job are out of work again within six months.
The public accounts committee concludes: "Despite high employment levels many people cycle between work and benefits."
Longer contracts
Work and Pensions Secretary Mr Purnell has announced a "commissioning strategy" that will see more private companies and voluntary groups involved in finding work for people on benefits - following a review by investment banker David Freud.
New contractors are expected to be offered incentives for getting people into work for at least six months, with further incentives planned in the future for increasing it to 18 months.
In return, they will get larger contracts which last up to seven years - twice as long as usual.
The public accounts committee report also criticised the fact the government had considered 13 weeks a "yardstick" for sustained employment, saying it was "too short".
Mr Purnell said there was a "big challenge" adding: "We have got really radical goals, getting one million off incapacity benefit, we need a radical blueprint to achieve it."
He told BBC 2's Newsnight: "We've had a big improvement in terms of getting the unemployment level down; now we need to get the inactivity level down."
He added: "We've had three million new jobs under this government. That is not a culture of dependency, that's a real success in terms of full employment."
'Economically rational'
Incapacity benefit costs the Treasury about £12bn a year. But the Department for Work and Pensions said recently the number of claimants was at its lowest since 2000.
Mr Freud has said that of the 2.7 million people claiming incapacity benefit, only 700,000 need it.
He estimates it would be "economically rational" to pay up to £62,000 to a company which placed an incapacity benefit claimant in a job for at least three years.
Of the government's latest plans, shadow work and pensions secretary Chris Grayling said the government was trying to "steal Conservative language on welfare reform".
"We've set out very clear and very detailed plans for welfare reform based on the experience in other countries, a very full package," he said.
"Gordon Brown is tinkering around the edges - a bit of reform here, a bit of participation by the private sector, a slight toughening of sanctions. Nothing like the scale of radical change we would need."
The Liberal Democrats have previously welcomed the use of the voluntary and private sector to help more people back into employment, but said it must be "properly financed, and include provisions to help those with serious problems such as low skills or mental health problems".
But unions have raised concerns that contracting out services will lead to job cuts and "lower standards and the exploitation of claimants".
DWP Press release click here.
I also found this interesting.
Check Nick Robinsons Blog on this also.
New measures being announced today about getting people back to work.
Minsters have been on BBC News 24 today.
Click here for story on BBC News website.
Here it is in text,
Private firms to find people work
Private firms and voluntary groups are to be offered cash incentives to get unemployed people into work for longer.
The changes will affect about 250,000 long-term unemployed people and all new claimants for sickness benefits.
Cabinet minister James Purnell said a "radical blueprint" was needed to get people into "sustainable" jobs.
Meanwhile an MPs' committee has found that 40% of jobseekers allowance claimants who find a job are out of work again within six months.
The public accounts committee concludes: "Despite high employment levels many people cycle between work and benefits."
Longer contracts
Work and Pensions Secretary Mr Purnell has announced a "commissioning strategy" that will see more private companies and voluntary groups involved in finding work for people on benefits - following a review by investment banker David Freud.
New contractors are expected to be offered incentives for getting people into work for at least six months, with further incentives planned in the future for increasing it to 18 months.
In return, they will get larger contracts which last up to seven years - twice as long as usual.
The public accounts committee report also criticised the fact the government had considered 13 weeks a "yardstick" for sustained employment, saying it was "too short".
Gordon Brown is tinkering around the edges - a bit of reform here, a bit of participation by the private sector, a slight toughening of sanctions
Chris Grayling
Conservatives
Chris Grayling
Conservatives
Mr Purnell said there was a "big challenge" adding: "We have got really radical goals, getting one million off incapacity benefit, we need a radical blueprint to achieve it."
He told BBC 2's Newsnight: "We've had a big improvement in terms of getting the unemployment level down; now we need to get the inactivity level down."
He added: "We've had three million new jobs under this government. That is not a culture of dependency, that's a real success in terms of full employment."
'Economically rational'
Incapacity benefit costs the Treasury about £12bn a year. But the Department for Work and Pensions said recently the number of claimants was at its lowest since 2000.
Mr Freud has said that of the 2.7 million people claiming incapacity benefit, only 700,000 need it.
He estimates it would be "economically rational" to pay up to £62,000 to a company which placed an incapacity benefit claimant in a job for at least three years.
Of the government's latest plans, shadow work and pensions secretary Chris Grayling said the government was trying to "steal Conservative language on welfare reform".
"We've set out very clear and very detailed plans for welfare reform based on the experience in other countries, a very full package," he said.
"Gordon Brown is tinkering around the edges - a bit of reform here, a bit of participation by the private sector, a slight toughening of sanctions. Nothing like the scale of radical change we would need."
The Liberal Democrats have previously welcomed the use of the voluntary and private sector to help more people back into employment, but said it must be "properly financed, and include provisions to help those with serious problems such as low skills or mental health problems".
But unions have raised concerns that contracting out services will lead to job cuts and "lower standards and the exploitation of claimants".
DWP Press release click here.
I also found this interesting.
Check Nick Robinsons Blog on this also.
NAM.
Thanks Ola/Zoe for getting back so quick with the THT presentation. It is in the process of being added to the main site for download.
Wednesday, 27 February 2008
We need a meeting place?
As part of our drive to become more organised. We need a meeting space so that those of us who are driving this campaign can come together regularly and plan.
If you are reading this and work for an organisation that would be willing to give us a room where we can meet. It will have to be evenings as some work. I would be very grateful if you would get in touch via john@hivbenefits.co.uk
If you are reading this and work for an organisation that would be willing to give us a room where we can meet. It will have to be evenings as some work. I would be very grateful if you would get in touch via john@hivbenefits.co.uk
Freedom Passes.
Some are concerned that they might loose there entitlement to their Freedom Passes if they face a change to there Disability Living / Mobility Allowance.
Some councils do award Freedom Passes to those who may not be eligible for DLA. Doing so depending on the circumstances of individual concerned & at the discretion of the Local Council.
Check with your own Local Council if you have any concerns.
Some councils do award Freedom Passes to those who may not be eligible for DLA. Doing so depending on the circumstances of individual concerned & at the discretion of the Local Council.
Check with your own Local Council if you have any concerns.
Tuesday, 26 February 2008
The last 24 Hours.
Just want to make you all aware of what has happened since the NAM/THT meeting.
You may recall a gentlemen. Who contributed to this meeting last evening. Who seemed to have some specific benefits realted knowledge. I have had some discussions with him. I will check to see if they he doesn't mind me using their first names on here. UPDATE : His name is Steve and he has good background experience.
Steve will be providing some information on the process we might go through when challenging any adverse decision we might have on our reviews. I will post it when I get it. Thanks guys.
They along with many of the comments both last evening and received during the day.
Clearly point to us having to organise ourselves better.
Many have the professional skill sets we need to make a start, and have made them available to help fight the issues we face. Though to move forward will need to find others with appropriate specialist skill to also help.
Time is the enemy of us all so we must seek to use it wisely.
Again pointing to the need to put a structure in place to play to our strengths as a community. Where serving the community as a whole is paramount and “ego” is left at the door.
So the current "background" conversation is around forming a "legally defined" organisation, a charity. So we can fight under the banner of a group rather than individually.Applying for funding for the incidental costs of running a campaign.
Clearly there is a niche for a national organisation to campaign for those within all of our HIV community. Who, for whatever reason. Rely on the state to meet their day-to-day financial needs.
Realising our limitations today are our goals for growth, tomorrow.
Initially this organisation will, because of size, only be able to generally help though the web & other media. Provide general guidance and information.
An organisation that empowers members of our community to tackle the benefit issues they face more specifically and independently. Giving the confidence to do so.
Though its existence & work. Shines a light on the failure of others i.e. the state. Taking them to task where appropriate.
I believe our community fell asleep. Many I meet are “seasoned” campaigners who fought for the rights our community have enjoyed, including myself, since the early days of HIV/AIDS. Many of these have because of age, numerous drug regimes and the results of surviving long term with HIV. Are not able to be as vocal or active of some of us. But we must harness this vast pool of strategic & tactical campaigning experience.
Most of us have Disability Living Allowance because of the fighting these people did at the time.
I have benefitted from this early work. Now it is my turn to stand up and be counted. I am so grateful for the advice, guidance and support.
We were caught of guard. We have some catching up to do. Our campaigning is already showing some results. We can do more.
We must not allow our community to sleep again. We must ensure the “mantle is always” passed on. Under the guidance of those who came before & learnt many of the lessons.
We know the how & why we feel let down over getting help with our benefit problems. Lets right this shameful wrong.
Many people who find this site thank me. Which I appreciate.
What can I do to help? They ask.
Very simple.
You may recall a gentlemen. Who contributed to this meeting last evening. Who seemed to have some specific benefits realted knowledge. I have had some discussions with him. I will check to see if they he doesn't mind me using their first names on here. UPDATE : His name is Steve and he has good background experience.
Steve will be providing some information on the process we might go through when challenging any adverse decision we might have on our reviews. I will post it when I get it. Thanks guys.
They along with many of the comments both last evening and received during the day.
Clearly point to us having to organise ourselves better.
Many have the professional skill sets we need to make a start, and have made them available to help fight the issues we face. Though to move forward will need to find others with appropriate specialist skill to also help.
Time is the enemy of us all so we must seek to use it wisely.
Again pointing to the need to put a structure in place to play to our strengths as a community. Where serving the community as a whole is paramount and “ego” is left at the door.
So the current "background" conversation is around forming a "legally defined" organisation, a charity. So we can fight under the banner of a group rather than individually.Applying for funding for the incidental costs of running a campaign.
Clearly there is a niche for a national organisation to campaign for those within all of our HIV community. Who, for whatever reason. Rely on the state to meet their day-to-day financial needs.
- To ensure that our community can access clear information for they or there support workers to use to help get those with HIV, the financial assistance they are entitled to.
- To raise awareness of the issues the HIV+ community faces to ensure fairness from the State in relation to benefits.
- To utilise the strengths and skills within our community to achieve this.
- An organisation that remains, independent, politically impartial, where no conflict of interest prevents campaigning on the issues.
- Deriving funding on the basis it is without strings allowing the voice of our community to be free.
- That where you live & how your local council invests it money in HIV services, doesn’t dictate who you can approach for support.
- To partner with likeminded organisations subject to the aforementioned.
- An organisation open & transparent to those who may use it.
- Accountable & scrutinised by those who use it.
- Ideally a co-operative type model where we all hold a stake.
- Where those who hold the necessary offices of responsibility do so on the basis that stakeholders have clearly indicated their ongoing approval.
- That our aim should be to accept criticism as a driver towards excellence. Where it is always welcome.
Realising our limitations today are our goals for growth, tomorrow.
Initially this organisation will, because of size, only be able to generally help though the web & other media. Provide general guidance and information.
An organisation that empowers members of our community to tackle the benefit issues they face more specifically and independently. Giving the confidence to do so.
Though its existence & work. Shines a light on the failure of others i.e. the state. Taking them to task where appropriate.
I believe our community fell asleep. Many I meet are “seasoned” campaigners who fought for the rights our community have enjoyed, including myself, since the early days of HIV/AIDS. Many of these have because of age, numerous drug regimes and the results of surviving long term with HIV. Are not able to be as vocal or active of some of us. But we must harness this vast pool of strategic & tactical campaigning experience.
Most of us have Disability Living Allowance because of the fighting these people did at the time.
I have benefitted from this early work. Now it is my turn to stand up and be counted. I am so grateful for the advice, guidance and support.
We were caught of guard. We have some catching up to do. Our campaigning is already showing some results. We can do more.
We must not allow our community to sleep again. We must ensure the “mantle is always” passed on. Under the guidance of those who came before & learnt many of the lessons.
We know the how & why we feel let down over getting help with our benefit problems. Lets right this shameful wrong.
Many people who find this site thank me. Which I appreciate.
What can I do to help? They ask.
Very simple.
- If you have a view or opinion express it.
- If you have a criticism, make it.
- But to serve us all. Spread the word, create awareness.
- If you only tell one other person that is a tremendous contribution to this cause. Awareness is golden.
This should be by us, for us, to serve us.
New website is live & picture of me posted.
Thanks to my partner for doing this so quickly and taking this off my hands.
Please feed back any errors or suggestions to john@hivbenefits.co.uk.
I have also added a picture of myself to the blog. I hopes this helps anyone who may come across this site. Realise there is a real person, a lay man (no pun intended) behind this.
Please feed back any errors or suggestions to john@hivbenefits.co.uk.
I have also added a picture of myself to the blog. I hopes this helps anyone who may come across this site. Realise there is a real person, a lay man (no pun intended) behind this.
THT meeting notes.
I have asked NAM to provide me with an electronic version of the THT presentation so those that missed getting a copy. Will be able to download it.
Current website.
Just to let you know my partner has now been tasked with the web stuff. He is currently redesigning the current website to make it more "user friendly".
The blog and current website were rushed as the situation demanded. Clearly we need to bring together the talent to bring the information from all sources together in a more "editorially" friendly and readable way.
We hope to place the new web site soon.
Any ideas would be welcome. This is after all, our resource and we will only all benefit if we contribute.
Thanks all.
The blog and current website were rushed as the situation demanded. Clearly we need to bring together the talent to bring the information from all sources together in a more "editorially" friendly and readable way.
We hope to place the new web site soon.
Any ideas would be welcome. This is after all, our resource and we will only all benefit if we contribute.
Thanks all.
Standard forms ...
Thank you to those who have raised this last evening and reminded me today.
Many feel a standard letter that people can print off and sign to send to their MP is a good idea. I agree.
I had alot of offers of help with this project last evening. This is one thing I will be discussing with some of those more skilled in these matters over the next few days (you have been warned LOL).
We also want to create other standard forms i.e. a sheet you can print off, daily for tracking your health for example. Any other ideas welcome.
Many feel a standard letter that people can print off and sign to send to their MP is a good idea. I agree.
I had alot of offers of help with this project last evening. This is one thing I will be discussing with some of those more skilled in these matters over the next few days (you have been warned LOL).
We also want to create other standard forms i.e. a sheet you can print off, daily for tracking your health for example. Any other ideas welcome.
Just a quick note.
Unfortunately today has been a day of appointments. So I will hopefully post later this evening
Monday, 25 February 2008
Meeting tonight update.
Thanks to Zoe from NAM for arranging this. Also on a personal level thanks to Ola for her presentation and time. It cannot have been easy for her.
The meeting was well attended (over 80). Much to the surprise of us all.
Thanks to all who attended. It is only as a community coming together that we can stand any chance to fight this.
To those who I told to email me rather than speak to . Forgive me I wasn't being rude. Only an email allows me the time to fully understand the comments & issues you raise and push it out to get any answer you need. I would forget otherwise.
Thank you to all for your support.
I will post more on tonights meeting on the web tomorrow and once I have confirmed some points of process that were raised.
The meeting was well attended (over 80). Much to the surprise of us all.
Thanks to all who attended. It is only as a community coming together that we can stand any chance to fight this.
To those who I told to email me rather than speak to . Forgive me I wasn't being rude. Only an email allows me the time to fully understand the comments & issues you raise and push it out to get any answer you need. I would forget otherwise.
Thank you to all for your support.
I will post more on tonights meeting on the web tomorrow and once I have confirmed some points of process that were raised.
NAM & THT meeting tonite..
If you need a map to the University of London click here.
There are some Blue Badge Disabled Parking spaces on Malet Street, One on Morwell Street, Store Street & Chenies Street.
Though parking should be free after 6.30pm.
Please take care not to park in a Green Badge Disabled Parking bay. Camden operates is own scheme for this inner London area and you may get a ticket. These bays are clearly marked.
See main website for details of meeting.
There are some Blue Badge Disabled Parking spaces on Malet Street, One on Morwell Street, Store Street & Chenies Street.
Though parking should be free after 6.30pm.
Please take care not to park in a Green Badge Disabled Parking bay. Camden operates is own scheme for this inner London area and you may get a ticket. These bays are clearly marked.
See main website for details of meeting.
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