The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released a new ‘easy read’ online guide to assist individuals applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in understanding and preparing for an assessment, whether it’s in-person or over the phone.
PIP assessments are conducted by health professionals, rather than the DWP, to determine the additional support required by someone with a disability, long-term illness or health condition to carry out everyday tasks. The DWP’s guidance simplifies the process and outlines what to expect, including the importance of attending the assessment, who you can bring along, and what happens afterwards.
According to the latest DWP figures, there are now more than 3.7 million people across Great Britain claiming PIP. The number of working-age people receiving this disability benefit is at a record high, with reforms planned for next year, reports the the Daily Record.
The full PIP guidance can be read on GOV.UK. Below is a summary of the PIP assessment process and tips to help you prepare for one, whether in-person or over the phone.
What is a PIP assessment?
The Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment is a chance for you to discuss how your condition impacts your daily life, rather than a medical examination or diagnosis. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will use the evidence gathered during this assessment to determine your eligibility for PIP.
A healthcare professional will conduct your assessment, compile a report, and forward it to the DWP decision maker. If you’re awaiting a review, it’s advisable to have a copy of your PIP evidence form on hand for telephone, video, and in-person assessments. This allows you to refer back to it, particularly if it was filled out a few years ago.
Discussing your condition
Citizens Advice provides a useful guide suggesting that you should be ready to discuss the impact of your condition, even if you’ve already detailed it on your PIP evidence form (the PIP2 document).
While this may be challenging, it can be beneficial to talk about:
- The types of tasks you struggle with or are unable to do – for instance, climbing stairs without assistance or remembering to attend appointments.
- How your condition influences your day-to-day life.
- What a difficult day looks like for you – for example, ‘On a bad day, I can’t walk at all because my injured leg hurts so much’ or ‘On a bad day, I’m so depressed I can’t concentrate on anything’.
The assessor will utilise the information you provided on your PIP claim form, but they’ll also form opinions based on what you say and do on the day. For instance, if you’re asked how you arrived at the centre for a face-to-face assessment and you mention that you took the bus, without further explanation, they might note down that you’re capable of travelling alone on public transport – unless you specify otherwise.
You may also be requested to perform some physical tasks during the face-to-face assessment. Don’t feel obliged to do things you wouldn’t normally be able to do. If you manage to do them on the day of the assessment, the assessor might assume you can always do them, so if you’re uncomfortable with something – make it known.
During the telephone assessment, you might be asked to describe how you carry out simple tasks such as preparing and cooking food, getting washed and dressed, and how you navigate outside your home. Don’t rush to answer, bear in mind they are reviewing your claim form and asking the same questions you’ve already responded to.
Break down your answer and guide them through how you complete tasks step-by-step to provide an accurate depiction of how your disability or health condition affects you. What might seem like a lengthy process for you, will clearly demonstrate to the assessor exactly how you accomplish tasks – so don’t attempt to hasten or simplify how you go about things.
The assessor will also take note of your mental state during the assessment – for instance, they will document whether you appear or sound depressed or happy, tense or relaxed, and how you manage social interaction.
Things to consider during the assessment
You’re allowed to have someone with you during the assessment, whether it’s conducted over the phone, via video call or in person. Just ensure the call is on loudspeaker and inform the assessor about who is accompanying you.
The DWP provides guidance on attending an assessment, which can be found on the GOV.UK website. You’re permitted to bring someone aged 16 or over into the actual assessment with you.
This could be anyone who helps you feel more at ease, such as a friend, relative or carer. If you wish, they can participate in discussions and jot down notes on your behalf.
Preparing for a face-to-face assessment
Ensure that your assessment centre has everything you require by checking with your assessment provider – if it doesn’t, you can request it. This can help you feel more comfortable on the day.
For example:
- Inquire if you’ll need to climb stairs, and if there’s a lift that can accommodate a wheelchair if necessary.
- Ask about the spaciousness of the centre if you become anxious in confined spaces – if the rooms or corridors are small, let them know this could cause you anxiety and see what alternatives they can provide.
- Request an interpreter or signer if required – ensure to do this at least two working days prior to your assessment to allow sufficient time for arrangement.
- If it’s important to you, request that the person conducting the assessment is of the same gender as you.
- Inquire about making an audio recording of the assessment – this must be done three days before your assessment and you should ask your provider about the regulations for using recording equipment.
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