Hi, my name is PhilipHKent! How do I present all this to the assessor?

PhilipHKent

Hi I am trying to complete a PIP application and one of my disability conditions is Diverticulitis and I am in constant pain and toilet issues leading to anxiety etc. I also have a degenerative condition in the lower spine making it hard to drive a manual, lift things etc without being in pain. I am inconstant pain and mobility issues because of both. How do I present all this? Thank you all - Philip  

poppy123456

You need to focus on how those conditions affect you based on the PIP descriptors, not the actual conditions itself. It's not awarded based on any diagnosis. 

Driving and lifting objects are not considered in any of the PIP descriptors. You can see those descriptors here. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/Global/Migrated_Documents/adviceguide/pip-9-table-of-activities-descriptors-and-points.pdf

I'd also advise you to have a read of this. It's a long read but worth spending a little time to have a read through it. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/personal-independence-payment-assessment-guide-for-assessment-providers/pip-assessment-guide-part-2-the-assessment-criteria#daily-living-activities

When filling out the form you should include a couple of real world examples 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. 

The space in the form to write information is very limited so use extra sheets of paper. Make sure you state which activity/question it refers to. Don't forget to include your name and NI number on everything you send. 

You can ring PIP to ask for extra time to return it and they will give an extra couple of weeks. If you have any additional evidence to support your claim you should include this when returning the form. They very rarely contact anyone for any evidence so you shouldn't rely on this. 

There's also a guide here that may help you. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/pip/help-with-your-claim/fill-in-form-pip/

Albus_Scope

Heya @PhilipHKent and welcome to the community. 

I can see Poppy has already given you some top advice, but I wanted to stop in and say hello. Best of luck with your application.

PhilipHKent

Hi , yes Poppy has been fantastic in a really stressful situation as I am not at all familiar with these forms, many thanks and regards Philip