PIP

BenefitsTrainingCo

Hi @sofia73

Sorry to hear about all the difficulties you are having.

As Matilda correctly says, don't be too disheartened if your MR is not successful, remember, this is just the DWP looking again at their OWN decision, they are not likely to change it unless you attach some fairly compelling evidence that they have not already seen - this does not necessarily mean that you would not be successful at appeal!

My advice would be to submit the MR, keeping it fairly brief - details of the decision you are appealing (PIP, date of decisions), brief details of your conditions and how they affect you, and then a brief explanation of why you disagree with the decision. There's no need to go further than about a page unless you really want to (in which case go for it!).

I view the MR almost as an administrative step that must be taken in order to get an appealable decision.

I would recommend trying to get a local CAB, welfare rights, or money advice worker to help with the appeal - they may not be able to assist with the MR, but I'd try asking.

Hope this helps!

Let us know if you need anything further

BenefitsTrainingCo

One thing to add - is just to be aware that the DWP, and any subsequent Tribunal have it within their power to reduce your award as well as increase it. I don't mean to panic you(!) I just need to make you aware of this - all the more reason to try and see someone face to face if you can.

sofia73

Thank you so much for the advice I think that's why I did not take it to appeal tribunal when I was not successful at the MR stage. I felt I should have gotten the higher mobility rates last time and since then my condition and symptoms have worsened. And now my daily living and mobility needs are greater. I have gone from 3 different medications to 8 and the chronic disease has spread, which I didn't even know could happen! It so difficult to try and come to terms with my illness, my inability to do 95% of what I used to do, the physical changes to my appearance and ability to
interact with others and then appealing decisions. Am feeling overwhelmed. But will keep you updated.