Hi, my name is smile247! Can I claim PIP?

smile247

Hi,

I've been diagnosed with neuropathy of my feet and legs, stenosis of my cervical vertebrae and just now a subchondral insufficiency fracture with bone marrow oedema, of my rt knee.

I've been a nurse for 90% of my life. Can I claim PIP? I'm non weight bearing at the moment for 6/12 weeks and I'm waiting for a bone density scan, which will take about 2 months to come through. Due to the neuropathy my balance isn't very good trying to hop around using crutches. The leg feels like a brick. I'm only up to use the toilet because bone marrow oedema is one step away from the bone collapsing and neurosis. This type of fracture is also known to heal slowly.

Can you give me some advice?

OverlyAnxious

Hi,

PIP is not means tested, so as long as your physical limitations fit the assessment criteria, then you can definitely apply for PIP.

One of the problems you may face right now is that your difficulties need to have lasted for 3 months, and also be expected to last for another 9 months. I don't have any experience with your conditions so I can't say whether that is the case or whether there is much chance of improvement over the next 9 months.

I have posted a link to the PIP descriptors below. You will see that they are split into 2 parts. Daily tasks first, and then Mobility tasks at the end. With the number of points shown next to each descriptor. You need to score at least 8 points in either part for a Standard award, or at least 12 points for an Enhanced award.

If you would prefer some help with the form filling, CAB or a local disability advice service can usually help with that.

pip_descriptors.pdf

chiarieds

Hi @smile247 - & welcome to the community. Thank you for telling us that you've been a nurse for so long 😊

Anyone can claim PIP if you've had a disability for at least 3 months & expect your problems with this to continue for a further 9 months. You can see the activities in brief which are looked at here:

https://assets.ctfassets.net/vms0u05139aw/pip_descriptors.pdf/93820be60dcc6420191292ed56e2c95f/pip_descriptors.pdf

For each component you need 8 or more points to be eligible for the standard rate, & 12 or more points for the enhanced rate.

PIP is not based on any diagnoses but rather your functional ability to 'reliably' be able to do any applicable activity. you can read about 'reliability' & what assessors would be looking for in more detail here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/personal-independence-payment-assessment-guide-for-assessment-providers/pip-assessment-guide-part-2-the-assessment-criteria

Let us know if you decide to apply & do come back if you have any further questions

Kimi87

If you decide to apply I'd strongly recommend getting help from local welfare rights for filling in the form.

Albus_Scope

Heya @smile247 and it's welcome from me too. 😁

It looks like the community has given you some top advice here and I'd also like to add you should definitely apply, but to seek help with the forms as they can be a bit fiddly.