PIP Appeal - Strange Outcome

Girl_No1

I submitted an appeal in respect of the duration of the award.  DWP were to respond to HMCTS by 13/08/21.  Online indicates they have not yet responded.

Today there is a payment pending in my bank account for a substantial amount.  I called DWP helpline to query the payment.  I was advised it is, indeed, money owed to me due to my appeal.  I was also advised a letter confirming details was posted to me on Monday 09/08/21.

A rough calculation indicates DWP have increased mobility from standard to enhanced and backdated this to the date I applied for PIP. 

How can this happen? I did not ask for/expect any increase in mobility. What I requested was an increased duration to the award.  I was explicit in that request. 

Has this happened to anyone else?  

Girl_No1

It depends if they've extended the award or not! 

Girl_No1

@Username_removed you can put your popcorn away!  

Letter received today.  Award increased and ongoing.

Thank you so much for your guidance in submitting the appeal. 

I am buying you a few cyber pints!! 

Thanks again.  

Cher_Alumni

@Girl_No1 Eeeeh, what a fab unexpected outcome!! Well done

ncor

Great news, definitely gives some reassurance and confidence to carry on with my appeal. 

chiarieds

Delighted for you @Girl_No1 - what a great result.

Girl_No1

@ncor Definitely! 

Now that I've calmed down and read through the letter, it does refer to them having taking my ESA application and assessment into account too.  

And, as Mike says, it's a lesson for all applicants to state at the outset what duration of award you want and why. 

Justcheckingin15

@Girl_No1 ,Did they actually take into account your ESA Application? I thought they were treated as seperate? Fab news anyway!!

Girl_No1

@Justcheckingin15 Sorry, my error - not the ESA application, rather the ESA Medical Report.

The exact wording of the letter is this; 

"Although you did not ask us to look at your award level we have fully reviewed all of the available evidence again, including your ESA Medical Report of 12 April 2021, which was not available at previous stages of the application process."

It goes on to say:

"As a result we have now decided to award the Enhanced rate of PIP to help with your mobility needs.  The award of the Enhanced rate for your daily living needs remains.

This is consistent with your medical history, your description of a typical day, how you engaged with the assessors, the available evidence and your ESA Medical Report."

I'm very glad they did cross-reference in my case.  I had an inkling I may be entitled to Enhanced Mobility but was not going to argue about it if I could secure a 10 year award with a light touch review - which I did!!  

I hope my experience gives some hope to others who are pursuing MRs or Appeals. 

Justcheckingin15

Girl_No1..that is fab!