Eight different medical problems, including kidney failure, but mum told she can't claim sick benefit
A mum from Northamptonshire scored zero points on the Government's sickness benefit assessment despite having at least eight different medical problems including kidney failure.
Applicants for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), formerly incapacity benefit, are awarded points based on their ability to work, with at least 15 needed to be eligible for help.
But Annamarie Elsworth, a mum of two from Earls Barton, has been told she does not tick a single box following her assessment despite having confirmed conditions including kidney failure and an ailing pancreas.
She also told the Department of Work and Pensions she has osteoporosis and her bones are so weak she recently broke several ribs after sneezing, but to no avail.
The 40-year-old said: "I was quite gobsmacked that despite everything I couldn't even get one point on their system.
"The reason I tried to get the benefit is that I don't get enough finances to keep a roof over my head. It's not like I'm doing it for the sake of it.
"I used to work until a few months ago and this is the first time I've tried to claim this benefit.
"If it was possible for me still to work then that would be fine but I genuinely can't."
Mrs Elsworth said she has been to her GP since the DWP ruling and has been advised to appeal the decision.
Her full list of medical complaints include being insulin-dependent for the last 36 years, having sight problems which needed laser treatment on both eyes and needing iron injections for anaemia.
The nerve endings in her hands and feet are damaged by the diabetes, leading to loss of feeling and mobility in both and bones in her ankles are fused together, meaning she cannot walk properly.
This is aside from her failing kidneys which means she will soon need dialysis or a donated kidney and the possibility that her pancreas may need to be replaced.
She also has osteoporosis.
A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: "Eligibility for ESA is based on a Work Capability Assessment, which is carried out by a healthcare professional.
"If people disagree with a decision, they have the right to appeal," the spokesperson added.
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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