Ill Health or medical retirement.

BEWARE OF A TIER 3 Alexander13
I was granted ill-health retirement after 21 years as a teaching assistant in January. I developed a rare incurable neuro disorder which causes severe spasms in my larynx in late 2019, but only diagnosed in May 2021.
 
Unfortunately, I have only been granted Tier3, which is only payable for a maximum of 3 years. At between 15 & 18 months, there is a review and at that stage, payments can be stopped completely 'if the condition has not worsened'. Mine will not worsen as it is so severe now. It is complicated by a secondary condition and a posible secondary and incurable neurological respiratory dystonia. 

My specialist made it clear that treatment to date, has failed: I either have no voice at all (I'm on day 236 continuous today like this) or I have severe spasms on every word. She stated that I will not recover and she is looking at some basic functionality, rather than any normal speech and that it may take the time upto and beyond retirement to get this. 

The Appeals Manager has just turned down my appeal under the IDRP1 and said there is insufficient evidence to take this further but I can make a complaint. She states, and I quote: 'It is perfectly conceivable to obtain employment in a job that requires no voice use' AAAAAGGGGHHHHH (If only I could scream!!) The DWP considered her letter as sufficient evidence to grant basic PIP, with a review in TEN years - but this is apparently irrelevant.

This has been the most stressful time of my life and is having a severe impact on my ability to talk due to excessive muscle tension. I don't know where to turn for help now. 

Alex_Scope said:

Hi @petersj and thanks for sharing what's happened lately, I'm sorry it's been so distressing. 

I can look into possible sources of help further, but can I ask if you've used AdviceLocal at all? It might be worth searching on there for professional advice.

Beyond that I'd certainly follow up with a complaint if you feel you'd like to challenge the decision.

I hope reaching out on the forum is helping you to feel heard and supported, but please do let me know if I've missed anything.

Thanks Alex

I have never heard of AdviceLocal. Thanks for the link. Finding this forum has been a revelation. Great site.

Thanks again. 

Morning @Alexander13 great to see you. 
That's brillient news, really happy for you.
If you don't mind me asking how long did you have to wait once the pension people received all the documents.
I was finished of 7th November, had another assessment from pension Doc's, who agreed with the OH, sent all my certificates etc, just waiting to hear from West Midlands Pension x