Hi I’ve just been awarded ill health retirement from the nhs. I went sick Oct 2021 but didn’t start this process until around Oct last year. I was awarded it last week. It’s a bit of a drag. Umpteen forms and with cognitive issues that’s been a nightmare. Now received a huge form again from nhs pensions which I’ve been told they need to continue. So in answer to your question a good six months or more. My trust were ridiculously slow which didn’t help. I applied for esa once sick pay ran out and was put in the support group. I’m currently going through mandatory reconsideration for pip. It is scary having money worries on top of everything else. I feel your pain and have my fingers crossed it goes quicker for you.

Hi Anita, Thank you so much for your reply 😃 it does sound like a slow painful process, it’s not fair that we have to go through this especially with cognitive issues, it should be simpler. I have been wondering about esa and when to apply for it. I am currently 6 months full pay and then 6 months half pay. Would I need to apply for esa when I am coming to the end of full pay or half pay? I’m sorry for all the questions, I really struggle making sense of things, taking it in and understanding and all due to MS i never used to be like this. Thank you again for your advice 😊 x