Social Welfare Appeal Hearing

B

Brunouno

Guest
Hi I am just wondering what an oral hearing is like, if anyone has been to one. I would really appreciate any information at all as i am really nervous. Also do i have to bring anything with me? and can I write down what i want to say?(its just that im afraid that I might mess up or forget to tell them something)

Again thanks in advance for any help

 
Hello Brunouno. I might be late in offering you my suggestions. I had an Appeal oral hearing last month. Usually they arrange to meet outside of the Social Welfare offices, sometimes in a pleasant hotel. Appointments are scheduled so you do not sit with other candidates whilst waiting. It is a one to one meeting, unless you have prearranged to bring somebody as listed in your appointment letter. The assessor will have your file with all documentation sent from the relevant sw department to whom you first applied to and were refused by. Bring your own file of correspondence; any financial details, in case you are asked etc. Have some questions prepared and written down which you might feel are relevant. Keep to the point of why you are appealing the decision and don't waffle. Take the assessor's name and question anything you are unsure of. It was stated there is a waiting time of 5-6 weeks for a decision. Good luck with it. Don't dumb yourself down and remember you have a right to be there.
 
There may often be a representative from SW also there to give their side of things.