Urgent, Can anyone advise me on a court summons?

[nicoleginge]

I've suffered with depression and anxiety the majority of my life. I've also suffered with self harm, anorexia and a suicide attempt that left me in hospital.

Anyway.

I got a letter today summoning me to court because I got overpaid me ESA. It's my own fault because all the paperwork and stuff confused me and I forgot to let them know I was doing more hours. I got overpaid by £5200 and I'm already paying back £20 a week.

It's terrifying me to the point we're I feel I can't do this. I can't go to court I'm not a bad person. I literally just want to kill myself and I'm scared I'm going to to it.

Does anyone have any advise on how to deal with this and maybe any advice on the court stuff. Will I go to jail?

Sorry to read of your situation. I don't have any advice but hopefully some more knowledgable people will come along soon. Could you get some support from the citizens advice bureau I wonder? And also let the gp know how anxious you are feeling. Also could you offer to pay a little bit more to avoid going to court possibly? I hope you will get some better advice from others soon. Sending you unmumsnetty hugs in the meantime.

OK op firstly breath.
Can you get some advice from Citizens Advice?
If you are struggling then your mental health is relevant to the case.

It is highly unlikely that you will to to prison for 5 and a bit K

I'm a criminal lawyer but in Scotland. I would urge you to speak to a solicitor ASAP. From the amount indicated, it is extremely unlikely you'll get jail but forgetting to tell the DWP is not a defence. Please get some help with this. It is not worth taking your life over!