Will refusing to attend the tribunal hearing go against their decision?

soapyt
soapyt Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener
in PIP, DLA, ADP & AA
I just can't bring myself to go. I am so sick of being unheard and not listened to and my anxiety has gotten so bad i'm now being started on medication. But im now worried that by saying i wont go, will this go against me or have people been awarded without attending?

Comments

  • calcotti
    calcotti Online Community Member Posts: 10,000 Championing
    edited November 2022
    It won’t be held against you but it does reduce your chances of getting the outcome you want (depending on what evidence has been provided).

    Before a tribunal then panel will review all the existing evidence. They use a hearing to explore areas that are uncertain of or to explore inconsistencies in the evidence. Tribunal decisions frequently refer to the testimony of the claimant at the hearing.

    If you do not attend the tribunal can only go on the written evidence. A paper based tribunal can be successful but it means it is even more important that you have a good written submission outlining what points you should score and why you are therefore entitled to a PIP award.
  • hannah9229
    hannah9229 Online Community Member Posts: 17 Connected
    @soapyt I have just been awarded for a paper based tribunal. I chose not to attend because of my physical and mental health. It didn’t go against me so I hope this helps.
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,456 Championing
    It won't go against you but the success rate of paper based hearings is only between 5-8%. Sometimes if you've requested a paper based hearing they may ask you to attend, which can either be face to face or telephone/video call. Have you considered asking for a telephone hearing?
    Please also be aware that they won't take into consideration any worsening of condition.

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