Waiting for court hearing for PIP for mental health - can I get carers element for my son

Lola1987

Good evening all, I’ve been extremely stressed trying to work out what I’m entitled to and how to go about sorting everything when suffering extremely bad anxiety and OCD
i will try not to waffle on but I could really do with some help and advice.
Back in September 2022 I applied for PIP due to my ongoing bad mental health, OCD, anxiety and I’m waiting a assessment for ADHD… I got refused and now went through the mandatory process… waiting for a hearing…. The wait it really affecting me.
since then I have been awarded DLA for two of my sons. I’ve been informed I can get an enhanced rate on my UC which I now have. My friend mentioned the other day that I can get carers element for one child…. the only problem is that I’m really struggling to look after myself! I can’t drive anymore or use public transport… I hardly cook as I get so overwhelmed so my family ex partner is here cooking for us and running around after everyone…I know they are my children so I do give a level of care but I don’t know if it’s enough to warrant a carers element? Also will they deny me PIP if they see me claiming this? I don’t want to jeopardise any money I’m entitled to… I also don’t want to miss out on the carers element as the money would be really useful as my ex partner had to quit he’s job to help look after the children! Our youngest son is being put back a year at nursery because he can’t cope.He has just applied for carers allowance for him. I’m loosing so much sleep and I’m at breaking point with it all… someone please help. Many thanks 
Lola

poppy123456

Firstly if you're claiming the LCWRA element of UC for yourself then you won't be able to receive carers element at the same time. This is because both elements can't be paid to the same person and you will receive the higher element only, which is LCWRA.

If you're not claiming the LCWRA element then claiming carers element doesn't mean the care you give has to be physical. It can be any level of care, even just being with them to comfort them like a mum does. 

People do claim carers element and/or carers allowance and PIP at the same time, I do. However, there could be issues if the care you give contradicts the reasons why you're claiming PIP. Mine doesn't contradict my claim and there's never been an issue but I'm not saying this applies to everyone. 

Lola1987

Good morning Poppy thank you for your response I really appreciate your time.
Do you think this will go against me with my pip claim? 

I would probably say the level of care I give is just emotional support and a lot of talking and comfort… I hope this is enough?!
I only get the lower LCWRA ( no payment ) I’ve applied for the full LCWRA but no response yet. 

Many thanks 
lola 

poppy123456

Lower LCWRA is known as LCW. I’m afraid I can’t tell you for certain if there would be any issues with a potential PIP award if you did claim carers element. I don’t know anything about how your health conditions affect you. 

Lola1987

Ok many thanks 😊