Crohns Disease and PIP

Christina1983

I have a very complicated form of Crohn's disease which limits the way I want to live my life. My life is controlled by my bowels and re occurring fistulas which can be horribly painful and unpleasant. I have extreme anxiety and depression due to this ongoing health issue.  Despite my plight I have been refused PIP after the interview and the reconsideration both scoring 0 points. I am going to lose my car soon which scares me as that car is the only reason I go out as I know I can get to my car and know if I have an toilet accident no one can see me and I don't have to feel humiliated. I would like to know if anyone is in the same position and if I am completely mad to think I do need some care with my disability.  

Geoark

Hello @Christina1983 and welcome to the community.

It is not unusual for applicants to get 0 points, or too few to qualify. If you have not done so you need to ask for a mandatory reconsideration, and the assessors report if you have not received it. If this does not work out the go to appeal. Around 65% of appeals are successful.

Have you looked at the PIP descriptors and the points awarded? They can be found at https://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/personal-independence-payment-pip/pip-points-system

@BenefitsTrainingCo any advice?

Sam_Alumni

Hi @Christina1983 welcome to the community, I have Ulcerative Colitis and a permanent ileostomy and also was turned down for PIP.  I wish I would have know about all the info and support there is here when I was going through my application!

We have videos about the appeal process and I would suggest you take a look and consider appealing the DWP decision.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sOsiEFo-Ck

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67tDSlsityY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIHjSpNNbQo

I totally understand where you are coming from, having accidents like this are so difficult to deal with and it is easy to become isolated and for it to affect your mental health. 

I would also suggest you have a look at Crohns and Colitis UK, their website has lots of information, but they also have local groups that offer support. 

steve51

Hi @Christina1983.

I am so sorry for you, unfortunately your not on your own as you will find on our online community.

Please let us know if we can help you with this ????

Sam_Alumni

How are you doing @Christina1983 ?