Hi my name is David I’m in the process of applying for PIP - 3rd attempt

DeltaBMike

I’m in the process of applying for PIP - 3rd attempt. I have a whole lot of things wrong with me including being an amputee (with complications), having COPD, Sleep Apnoea and Depression but the worst thing of all is ADHD which has got me into trouble my whole life and still is. I only found out I had it when I was 53 (I’m 62 now) but I wish I hadn’t because the medication messed up my brain. I am struggling to understand what I need to do to explain to these people what it’s like having to live with it. I’m hoping somebody in here will be willing to lend some advice to old ears.

Thank you. Have a good day.

poppy123456

Was there any reason why you didn't challenge those previous decisions? To constantly reapply using the same evidence you previously used could see constant refusals.

PIP isn't awarded based on any diagnosis, it's how those conditions affect you against the PIP activities.

The first thing to do is to try to understand the PIP descriptors and why they mean, this is always the first step everyone should do before applying. This may help with that. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/personal-independence-payment-assessment-guide-for-assessment-providers/pip-assessment-guide-part-2-the-assessment-criteria

When filling out the forms you should include a couple of real world incidents of exactly what happened the last time you attempted each descriptor that applies to you. Adding detailed information such as where you were, what exactly happened, did anyone see it and what the consequences were. You should aim for at least half an A4 side of paper per descriptor that applies to you.

Hannah_Alumni

Hello @DeltaBMike

Welcome to the community! I'm sorry you have been through so much and have to do this process a 3rd time! I see Poppy has given some great advice. I would also encourage you to reach out to Citizen's Advice or have a read of their information pages on how to fill out the forms. 

DeltaBMike

Thank you @Poppy123456 and @Hannah_Scope. I acted on your advice and reached out to Citizens advice for assistance as well as being very clear, in my application, how my conditions affect me  I was doing it wrong it would seem. In fact one could say I was doing it exactly wrong. Thank you I eagerly await the outcome of the effort. 

Hannah_Alumni

Please keep us updated @DeltaBMike