PIP assessment last Thursday (29th February)

Hedgesparrow

Hi everyone, I had my PIP assessment last Thursday and found it deeply stressful and traumatic. It's such a horrible damaging process - and the long and unpredictable wait is just another excruciating part of the torture
There doesn't seem to be any way of taking your mind off it either - I applied for PIP in mid-November and have felt worried and tormented ever since. 
I applied for PIP hoping to receive some help to cope with the profound effects and difficulties caused by ASD/ADD.
I read the descriptors carefully, and think my difficulties should result in enhanced daily living and mobility, but I was so upset during the assessment that I don't think I was able to explain myself adequately. My husband handled the initial application phone call back in November for me, (I spoke only briefly to give my consent) as I really struggle with telephone conversations. My daughter intended to be with me for the assessment appointment last Thursday which was scheduled for 3 o'clock. At 2 o'clock the phone rang - number withheld - so I knew it was the independent assessment service and picked up (I don't normally speak on the phone to anyone apart from family) - the lady asked if I could do the assessment in 20 minutes? My daughter wasn't with me, but I wasn't sure if I could refuse, so I reluctantly agreed. 
By the time the phone rang 20 minutes later I was completely overwhelmed with anxiety and panic. The first questions concerned my role as Carer for my 83-year-old mum who lives with us, and then moved straight to the fact that I have just started a University course (Creative Writing via distance learning - which I had to fight with SFE to get funding for) - I cried and was struggling to speak through most of it (1 hour in total). The whole thing felt so demeaning, and with the approach of the assessor, I don't feel very hopeful about the outcome. Forty-five minutes later I got a text from DWP to say they had received my assessment report. 
I have taken note of all the excellent advice here regarding whether it's a good idea to request the report, but with my assessment being so traumatic/feeling disastrous - I decided it would be better to get a copy of the report so I can get better prepared for the likely decision. I'm guessing MR and then tribunal...
Anyway please keep your fingers crossed for me )

Rosie_Scope

Hi @Hedgesparrow, thanks for sharing your experience. Sorry it was so traumatic, it can be a really stressful process, but well done for getting through the phone call. I'll be keeping everything crossed that it's a good result for you!  

Hedgesparrow

Thanks Rosie!
Thanks also to all who share their journeys here - the sense of community and support is priceless, and the success stories offer hope and a reason to persevere despite the awful process. Seeing others timelines is helpful too, in terms of managing expectations during the lengthy waiting periods. I don't yet know the outcome of my assessment - but following the example of others here, I fully intend to fight to the end if the decision goes against me.