ADOS assesment (Adult)

I agree with Scorpion, ATOS has improved a lot since ESA started and it wasn't as bad as I feared, though it is still gruelling. I didn't have to appeal either.

My tips are:

1.  Spend as long as you can on filling in the work capablity assessment form, ESA50, (you can download a pdf from the internet. I can add a link if you need it). This is not the first form ESA1 which is a (very long) more general benefit application form. On ESA50 give examples that are relevant to the questions from previous work situations as this helps the assessor imagine your difficulties. I ignored the fact that it said "everyday life" and made it work focused. I found that doing it over a period meant I had time I kept thinking of new examples. (having to work in a store cupboard is a good example but you will need to spell out why it is impossible to work in the office).  It is a bit of an upsetting process focusing on how difficult your working life has been. I summarised the main points covered in the questions in the summary. If you have trouble with it ask CAB, (as Scorpion suggested).

2. If you have problems using the phone then in the space for the phone number say you will not be able to deal with a phone call and give a number of a friend if possible and an email address.

3. In the space near the end where it asks if you have any special requirements for the interview say you want someone who knows about Autism Spectrum.  This made my interview so much more bearable.

4. Get two copies of the report from the diagnosis send one with ESA50 (I sent everything through the post so I did not have to go to the job centre, the recorded delivery charge was £7!!) and take the other with you. If you have had any 'therapy'/support get a letter from them too.

5. If possible get someone to go with you.

I wouldn't wait until it is urgent before you look at ESA50.

The assessor is not an expert on AS - he/she can only know what you tell him/her.

I agree with Scorpion, ATOS has improved a lot since ESA started and it wasn't as bad as I feared, though it is still gruelling. I didn't have to appeal either.

My tips are:

1.  Spend as long as you can on filling in the work capablity assessment form, ESA50, (you can download a pdf from the internet. I can add a link if you need it). This is not the first form ESA1 which is a (very long) more general benefit application form. On ESA50 give examples that are relevant to the questions from previous work situations as this helps the assessor imagine your difficulties. I ignored the fact that it said "everyday life" and made it work focused. I found that doing it over a period meant I had time I kept thinking of new examples. (having to work in a store cupboard is a good example but you will need to spell out why it is impossible to work in the office).  It is a bit of an upsetting process focusing on how difficult your working life has been. I summarised the main points covered in the questions in the summary. If you have trouble with it ask CAB, (as Scorpion suggested).

2. If you have problems using the phone then in the space for the phone number say you will not be able to deal with a phone call and give a number of a friend if possible and an email address.

3. In the space near the end where it asks if you have any special requirements for the interview say you want someone who knows about Autism Spectrum.  This made my interview so much more bearable.

4. Get two copies of the report from the diagnosis send one with ESA50 (I sent everything through the post so I did not have to go to the job centre, the recorded delivery charge was £7!!) and take the other with you. If you have had any 'therapy'/support get a letter from them too.

5. If possible get someone to go with you.

I wouldn't wait until it is urgent before you look at ESA50.

The assessor is not an expert on AS - he/she can only know what you tell him/her.