Here are a selection of some commonly asked questions and answers to help you.
Choose the area you’re interested in and simply select the question to see the answer:
Can I have my appointment letter in a different format?
Appointment letters are available in a range of accessible formats. For more information, please contact Capita.
Can I change the way my assessment is being carried out?
If you would prefer to be assessed in a different way, please contact Capita as soon as possible so that we can discuss this with you.
How do I request an audio recorded assessment?
We will accommodate requests for an audio recorded assessments where possible and provide the equipment to do this. However, you must make a request for an audio recording before the assessment takes place.
If you would like your assessment to be audio recorded, please contact Capita. Please make your request as early as possible so it is part of the appointment booking process.
You can find more information, including an explanation of the DWP policy about the audio recording of Work Capability Assessments, on GOV.UK.
What happens if I cannot attend my assessment appointment?
If you do not attend your face-to-face or telephone appointment, you will be sent a form (BF223). It will ask why you did not attend. You will need to complete it and send it in the pre-paid addressed envelope DWP provided.
If they accept ‘good cause’ for not attending the appointment, they may refer your case back to us. We will arrange a new appointment.
I want my assessment done by a healthcare professional of the same gender. Can I ask for this?
Yes, please contact Capita.
Will I have enough time to explain about how my condition affects me?
Yes. The healthcare professional will ask you questions about how your condition affects you day to day. They will give you the time you need to respond or to mention other ways your illness, disability or health condition affects you.
Can I see a copy of my assessment report?
You can see the report completed by the healthcare professional after it has been sent to DWP. Please phone DWP (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) on 0800 121 4433 (textphone: 0800 121 4493).
If you have hearing or speech difficulties, you can also contact DWP through Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 121 4433.
How do I contact Capita?
Phone
For any enquiries or help completing your ESA50 or UC50 questionnaire, please contact Capita on:
0800 072 0222 (England and Wales)
0800 072 0226 (Welsh Line)
Our lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 5pm Saturday
Text relay service
If you have speech or hearing difficulties, you can also use the text relay service on 18001 0800 072 0222 (use with NGT or Relay UK apps).
Can I have the assessment carried out in my home?
If you think you cannot travel because of your medical condition, please contact Capita as soon as possible. Our healthcare professionals will then consider all available information. It is likely we will ask you for supporting information, including confirmation from a medical professional who is treating you.
We may be able to offer a pre-paid taxi to the assessment centre or provide a telephone assessment as an alternative.
How do I request an audio recorded assessment?
We will accommodate requests for an audio recorded assessments where possible and provide the equipment to do this. However, you must make a request for an audio recording before the assessment takes place.
If you would like your assessment to be audio recorded, please contact Capita. Please make your request as early as possible so it is part of the appointment booking process.
You can find more information, including an explanation of the DWP policy about the audio recording of Work Capability Assessments, on GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
I use a wheelchair. Is the assessment centre accessible?
Please contact Capita as soon as possible if you use a wheelchair or have other significant mobility. We want to make sure that we can send you to an assessment centre that you can access. If this is not possible, we may be able to conduct your assessment by telephone.
Can I bring my assistance dog to the assessment centre with me?
Yes, you may bring assistance dogs or other service animals with you.
I can’t get to the assessment centre, what can I do?
Please contact Capita as soon as possible. We may be able to arrange transport for you or conduct a telephone assessment.
How much internet data will I use?
A video assessment uses around the same amount of data as Skype or FaceTime. If you’re using a Smartphone or tablet, connect to a home or other secure WiFi network to avoid using your mobile data allowance.
What if I am unhappy about the benefit decision from DWP?
If you are unhappy about the decision made by DWP, you may ask them to reconsider their decision. Please phone DWP (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) on 0800 121 4433 (textphone: 0800 121 4493).
If you have hearing or speech difficulties, you can also contact DWP through Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 121 4433.
What will happen to my complaint about your service?
Our aim is to deal with your complaint fairly, consistently and in a timely manner. We will acknowledge your complaint within two working days.
We aim to respond to your complaint within 20 working days. Sometimes our investigation may take longer because we may need to:
– Obtain a copy of the report or questionnaire from the office dealing with your claim
– Obtain information from the healthcare professional or other employees involved
If we find any inaccuracies on your report, we will notify the office dealing with your claim. It is for DWP to decide whether our findings change their decision about your benefit entitlement.
Capita cannot change the decision of DWP on your benefit or request a new assessment.
Email: lot2.CustomerRelations@haas.dwp.gov.uk
What if I am not satisfied with your response to my complaint?
Please contact Capita, explaining which parts of your complaint have not been addressed to your satisfaction. A senior manager will personally review the investigation into your complaint and undertake a further investigation, if appropriate.
Can I take my complaint further?
Capita provides assessments on behalf of DWP. If you continue to be dissatisfied with the complaint process, you can contact the DWP Independent Case Examiner.
Independent Case Examiner
PO Box 209, Bootle, L20 7WA
Email: ice@dwp.gov.uk
Telephone: 0800 169 0310
