PIP Application Experience

PerceusP

I just thought that I would share my recent experience of applying for PIP. 

I had previously successfully applied for LCWRA, I went into the DWP offices to see my work coach and he advised me to apply for PIP. So I did. The process has taken a few months, but I was approved for PIP last week. 

My advice to anyone applying is to read all of the advice and guidance out there. Read what the descriptors are, and write down how your illness affects you, with regard to the descriptors.

The lady who conducted my video assessment didn't try and trip me up. She asked reasonable questions about how my illness affects my daily activities. She may of asked the same question, but in a different way, but that was it. The video assessment took exactly an hour. I felt that I had plenty of opportunity to speak and put my points across. I had photocopies of my application form in front of me, together with my medical papers, like my list of meds, appointment letters, etc. Those were useful to refer to, during the assessment.

Preparing for the assessment is key. When I was asked a question like - What difficulties do you have preparing a meal? - Because I had a copy of the completed application form in front of me, I could refer to it. About 3 times a week I forget to eat. My friend telephones me every day to remind me. I can't prepare a simple meal because back pain most days makes it difficult. I use a perching stool to sit. I use microwave meals, because my depression makes me forget to turn the oven off. Things like that then led to questions like, How many times a week do you forget to eat? What do you do when you don't eat a meal? What aids do you use to help you prepare a meal? Am I able to pick up shopping?

Anyway, I hope that helps others. I have been lucky. I have only been met by kindness and support through the very stressful process of applying for entitled benefits. If in doubt, ask for help here and elsewhere. You are not alone, there are many of us out here, who have been and who are, walking in your shoes. The advisors here are Scope are superb. If you have a question or just feel anxious about the process, please reach out. 

August 8 - Telephoned PIP to request application form.

August 18 - PIP application form received.

September 18 - Requested extension to return form, which was granted.

September 27 - Returned completed PIP form.

October 3 - Contacted PIP for address to send additional information. Posted that day.

October 27 - Letter from PIP advising of video assessment date. Telephoned PIP to rearrange video assessment as it clashes with hospital appointment.

November 21 - PIP video assessment.

November 27 - Text from PIP to advise that they have received my assessment papers. 

November 29 - Call from PIP to clarify two points, one being my bank details. 

November 30 - Text advising that I have been awarded PIP.
December 2 - Award letter received.

66Mustang

Thanks for sharing @PerceusP your experiences are very similar to mine. It's good to get good experiences (which the majority of people have) because most people only come onto a forum when they have a problem which gives the impression that everyone has issues.