Change of Circumstances &PIP Journey

Jasper2011

Hi everyone, sorry if this is long but thought it may help others to understand it's not always a bad outcome/experience although it does impact your mental health when trying to access PIP and waiting for a decision after putting your life story out there to complete strangers can be gruelling!

I first applied for PIP in 2015 based on my Mental Health, compromised immune system and IBS and the multitude of medication I was taking along with my difficulties to complete every day tasks were becoming unbearable. My form was detailed with examples of my struggles but only contained details of my consultants details with NO reports from GP etc. I attended the f2f assessment with HCP and as difficult as it was for me to attend and pour my heart out, she was very understanding, professiinal & compassionate and it probably helped that she was an ex mental health nurse, following the assessment I was then awarded 3 months later with Enhanced DL and Standard Mobility for an ongoing period with a review after 2025

Over the years my health got worse and I was diagnosed with widespread OA fecal incontinences, chronic Pain making my life miserable and I was no longer able to move and I have become a couch potatoes and no longer enjoy any aspect of my life. I put in for a change of circumstances Aug 2023, was sent out shorter form to fill in and again, I gave lots of examples of my difficulties, prescription list and names of OT and consultants, I was given a paper based assessment and was awarded enhanced DL and Enhanced Mobility in October 2024 for an ongoing period to be looked at after 2033

I have not posted this to brag, I have posted this to try make people aware that if you complete a detailed form with lots of examples of where you have tried to complete each activity and what happens when you try etc and are able to provide details of all involved in your care, you are honest and leave your dignity at the door then hopefully your journey  will be assessed and understood properly where you may receive the financial support you need to live some sort of life.

I know mentally it's draining and not an easy process to get through and I wish all who struggle with hidden and visible disabilities get what they are entitled in a smooth way and wish all good luck and success!

Thanks for reading and hope it helps!

Jasper2011

Sorry was awarded Oct 2023 not 24 as not there yet doh!