Hi I'm northernsoul89! I had my assessment, and I don't feel it went well. Anyone have feedback?

northernsoul89

Hello everyone I applied for pip on mental health grounds as I am a long term sufferer of depression. My support worker filled out my form and said I need prompting to eat and help with medication and budgeting. I was unaware of the points system and unfortunately did not prepare. I told them I was drinking and abusing drugs , recent relapse. This was not on form. I feel they asked me trick questions like is my flat upstairs and can I make ready meals. I feel Ibombed the question on food and that will cost me. I was not asked many questions and nothing about toilet and bathing etc I feel I failed to argue my case and will not get the award as they asked very little. I'm in supported living and I am worried sick i wont get awarded pip because I can walk and use a microwave . Will they just ignore my addiction and depression as it's a point based system ? I also spoke well on the phone so they could use that against me too. Any feedback is appreciated 

janer1967

Hi and welcome 

First of all those questions are what would be expected and not out of the ordinary 

They take your application form any evidence and the assessment into account 

You can request a copy of your assessment report after 7 days it isnt a final decision but will show recommendations and in majority of cases go with the report 

They ask questions based on your form so it depends what you put about toilet and bathing as to if they needed to ask questions 

All you can do is wait for your decision and if you are not in agreement then put in for mandatory reconsideration 

Keep us updated and if you have any further questions just ask 

mikehughescq

There are no “trick questions” at all. They’re all relevant and save the HCP time as they often cover several bases. I also wouldn’t worry about failing to argue your case. That’s not how an assessment should proceed. It’s a conversation. Nothing more. Certain areas not being covered is not a sign of anything either. It usually means they’ve been able to form a view from the claim pack and your other answers. Being able to walk or use a microwave are not the relevant issues. The key question is whether you can do those things reliably.