Unsure whether to appeal PIP decision.

JulieAK

Hi, I have just received my review letter and have been awarded PIP for Daily living at (Higher) rate and mobility at (Lower rate) I have been awarded ten points as going out causes me severe psychological distress and I can not go out alone.
I am approaching a period of therapy arranged by mental health services which requires me to leave the house. I phoned the PIP helpline and asked if I should have been given the higher award and the man said no, as the higher rate is for physical disabilities and severe cognitive disabilities. I also have BPPV as well as PTSD, OCD and depression and anxiety. Does anyone have any idea what I should do or any advice as to whether I should appeal the decision.?

Trevor_PIP

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/140361/unsure-whether-to-appeal-pip-decision

You have come across the most confusing area of a PIP claim and you should seek professional advice. If you rarely go out due to overwhelming distress and require someone with you the 10 points is correct. The therapy you mention, how many times a week will your leave your house with someone and in overwhelming distress? This is an important point.

If you appeal, your whole claim will be looked at again, are you aware of that.

JulieAK

No I don’t know how it works but I do know that I was told by a friend that this could be wrong.

Rachel_Scope

Hi @JulieAK. If you feel that you should receive a higher award you can apply for a Mandatory Reconsideration which is the first step in an appeal before a Tribunal. Here's some information that explains the process https://www.scope.org.uk/advice-and-support/challenging-pip-or-other-benefits-decisions

As Trevor has said, if you appeal the whole claim will be reviewed again and your award could go up, down or be stopped.

Hope that helps.

JulieAK

Thank you.

Trevor_PIP

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1088318#Comment_1088318

As I said, the only confusing area of a PIP claim. If you rarely go out due to overwhelming distress and require someone with you the 10 points is correct. For the 12 points you must be able to go out the majority of days (more than 50% of days) again in overwhelming distress and needing someone with you. Can you prove this if you appeal? The information assessors use below. Still recommend you contact a benefits advisor to advise if you should appeal.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/personal-independence-payment-assessment-guide-for-assessment-providers/pip-assessment-guide-part-2-the-assessment-criteria#mobility-activities

JulieAK

Hi, it sounds too complicated, I don’t think I’m going to bother. It makes me feel apprehensive about facing these new challenges.

Trevor_PIP

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1088443#Comment_1088443

It's up to you, obviously I don't advise what to do as it is down to the person. I just try to help to the best of my knowledge. It is a confusing area of a PIP claim. Hope I have helped.

JulieAK

yes you’ve been a help, I think with me it is more about the fact that these people who decide things tend to not treat people with mental health issues the same as physical health issues. The points system indicates this in my opinion.