Good morning everyone from a very cold London - change to phone assessment?

Marcus66

I suffer from COPD, CPA (Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis), depression, chronic fatique. I have had an award since 2014 with both components on the higher level. This initial application was mainly completed and submitted by my late partner as I was unable to complete the submission process due to severe depression and axiety. Since my partner`s passing in 2022 I am on my own and as I now have to do more things without his help and assistance I wrote to the DWP to inform them of these minor changes. I submitted their documentation with extensive proof from treating physicians etc on 6 August 2025.

This morning I woke up to a text message from Ingeus inviting me for a face-to-face assessement on 05/12/2025. The cold weather is really bad for lung conditions and I am currently suffering from a viral chest infection. During this time of the year I try to not venture out unless absolutely neccessary!

Please could anyone help with what my options are?

Could I insist on a telephone assessement?

I look forward to your resonse!

Best wishes and stay warm.

Rachel_Scope

Morning @Marcus66 from a cold Yorkshire! Yes you can call them to change it to a phone appointment. I'm not sure whether it'd be on the same date or not but it seems it'd be best for you stay at home where it's warm.

I would say to ring the number on the letter you received but I see you got a text message. Was there a number on there for you to call?

Marcus66

Hi Rachel thanks a lot for your reply. I only got the text this morning and suppose I will get the letter soon. With my lung conditions I seldom go gout in this cold as it makes my symptoms much worse. They have also called me for a 09:15 appointment which is impossible for me. My meds often makes me feel very groggy in the morning so I never arrange any Dr's appointments before at least 11 am!

I am within my right to ask for a telephone assessement right?

Do you think I would need any more "proof"!

I really connot believe they are doing this to me! I will be 59 soon and it is so clear in all my Dr's letters and what I submitted to them that my lung health has deteriorated and will continue to do so but yet they call me in this freezing cold weather for a 09:15 face-to-face appointment!!!😮

Best wishes.

Rachel_Scope

Yes you're well within your rights to ask for a telephone assessment, you don't need proof. I requested a video call for mine without any issues as I knew I wouldn't be able to cope face-to-face.

I feel like they default to a face-to-face appointment, so unless you request otherwise that's what type of appointment you'll get. I think maybe you're giving them a bit too much credit thinking they'd book an appointment based on your needs without it being pointed out to them 🤣