Hi, my name is Rhiannon_Autumn!

Rhiannon_Autumn
Rhiannon_Autumn Online Community Member Posts: 1 Listener
edited July 30 in PIP, DLA, ADP and AA

I'm Autistic and struggle with Low Mood, Depression, Anxiety and Stress. Wishing I could be allowed to focus on improving my mental health, but instead can't seem to catch a break with the DWP constantly on my back.

I just had the worst health assessment (for PiP eligibility) ever. It went on for over 2 hours, the assessor was combative, rude, putting words in my mouth. hostile when I asked for a 5minute break about halfway through. So much so that the Tenancy support worker who is helping me and my partner out with dealing with these people informed me that she is going to be putting in a complaint about the way I was treated during the assessment.

I'm already currently getting the enhanced mobility rate and feel like, given my mental health struggles I should be getting daily living aswell, but didn't score enough points for even the standard amount last time I was assessed. Hopefully this time round I, with the tenancy support workers help, have made a stronger case of how my disabilities are affecting me and I get better luck this time.

My worst fear is, probably to no surprise, that they will try to take PiP off me completely, even the mobility award. Fingers crossed I don't have to fight too hard to get the PiP awarded this time as I had to go all the way to Tribunal last time round.

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Comments

  • Overwhelmed1
    Overwhelmed1 Online Community Member Posts: 38 Contributor

    hi @Rhiannon_Autumn I’m so sorry to hear you had a bad assessment experience. Mine was also two hours and had worried me but when I saw the report I was reassured that it had captured everything we discussed. It was recommended to me on this forum to phone the DWP and ask for a copy of your report which I did a few days after my appointment. I received it a few days later. It really helped reassure me whilst I waited for the results so if you haven’t already asked for this is may be useful to do so. Once you have the report you can also use it to explain any misunderstandings or incorrect statements. I hope it all turns out well for you.

  • Overwhelmed1
    Overwhelmed1 Online Community Member Posts: 38 Contributor

    @Rhiannon_Autumn I meant to say well done for being brave and asking for a break, good for you! I wanted one but didn’t ask and it was noted on my report that I was able to complete the assessment without a break!! Fortunately they had also noted that I had informed them at the start that due to my disability I needed to be able to move about as I was not able to sit/stand etc for long. Good luck!

  • Mary_Scope
    Mary_Scope Posts: 2,196 Scope Online Community Children and Family Specialists

    Hi @Rhiannon_Autumn and a warm welcome to the community from me!

    I'm really sorry you had to go through such a difficult and upsetting assessment. It sounds incredibly unfair and stressful experience for you. Hopefully the stronger case you've put forward this time helps the decision makers see how much support you really need and you get a fair outcome without having to fight all over again! I really hope you get a better outcome this time😄

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