pip entitlement?

silverfox

Hi I was diagnosed in Feb 2015 with T2 no mo lung cancer.
My question is can I claim pip?
Thanks

Markmywords

Hello @silverfox,
Actually it has nothing to do with what condition you have but rather how reduced your ability is to meet some very, very specific criteria set by the DWP.

Score yourself using either the CAB or Benefits and work web site tools. Even if you do score enough points, expect to have to fight to get PIP  It is a winnable and worthwhile fight though.

BenefitsTrainingCo

Dear silverfox,

As markmywords says, PIP doesn't look at what condition you have but rather looks at what you can or cannot do, and you get points accordingly. There is one exception, and that is if you are terminally ill  - sorry to mention this but my knowledge of lung cancer stages is limited so I'm really not sure. I can give you the benefit information. For PIP purposes terminally ill means you are expected to die within six months.

If that is the case then your GP or hospital consultation should complete a form called DS1500. When you claim PIP, explain that you are claiming it for these reasons. You would automatically get the daily living component at the enhanced rate. You wouldn't have to go to a medical, but you would be asked questions about your mobility needs in case these are affected too.

If that doesn't apply then whether you get PIP would depend on whether your condition makes it more difficult for you to do certain activities. You can have a look at the activities which might be affected using www.pipinfo.net, and clicking conditions which might apply to you, for example, 'breathing problems'.

It's a good idea to check if there's anyone specialising in benefit claims and cancer who might be able to help you locally. For example, Macmillan often have welfare benefit specialists, based locally or in hospital settings.

Will