Unannounced PIP assessments

chloggi

I wondered if anybody else had a PIP assessment out of the blue. I was called today from an unknown number and asked to give some details about my claim and they said they only needed 10 minutes so I didn’t presume it was anything too serious at the end of the discussion the lady said oh you hear about your decision in six weeks. At no point did they mention this was my assessment and I have had no letter or text to say that today was the date of the appointment with the assessment has this happen to anybody else? I’m feeling really anxious about it now because was not at home when they called and wasn’t aware it was an assessment.

chloggi

I will also add, this is not my first time applying. I’ve never known anyone just have an unannounced call. Also as I am still processing/in shock I can’t remember if she asked me to confirm details. I was in my car at the supermarket… it just felt so sudden and I wish I’d just said it wasn’t a good time. I’m autistic and just having this sprung has really caused me to worry

JBS2022

This was probably a paper based assessment, sometimes if they have enough information but just need to confirm a few things they will phone you and ask a few questions. It means you won't have to have a full face to face or telephone assessment.

Alex_Alumni

I'm sorry to hear this has caused you to worry @chloggi I can appreciate why a call out of the blue would be a shock.

Do you have anything you like to do that's really helpful for de stressing and relaxing?

As JBS2022 has mentioned, you might well be having a paper-based assessment. I hope you hear more in due course, but if there's anything we can do to help in the meantime, please ask  

chloggi

Is this common practice? I was pretty taken aback by it

Alex_Alumni

Hi @chloggi, for a paper-based assessment I believe it usually happens, but not all the time. It depends on how much information they have, and what they need to double check. 

If you feel you've been treated poorly, Gov.uk have information on their complaints procedure if you'd like to take anything further.

chloggi

I just expected to be notified- it also seems odd that they’d assess a mobility issue without seeing me in person (although I did provide medical reports) they asked nothing about my neurodivergence and how it affects me. Hopefully I’ll get the award without being seen, just seems unlikely. 

Alex_Alumni

Hopefully @chloggi, fingers crossed Keep us in the loop when you can!

poppy123456

There's nothing odd about assessing your mobility or any other part through the information and evidence you've submitted, without the need for face to face assessment. The majority of assessments are by telephone anyway.

Although paper based assessments are rare, they are definitely possible.