PIP Tribunal today didn’t really go to plan….

FloridaDino
FloridaDino Online Community Member Posts: 38 Connected
edited September 2023 in PIP, DLA, ADP and AA
So after 10 months of waiting, I finally had my Tribunal today. Did all my prep, compiled notes, submitted all medical evidence I had etc.

It was a telephone tribunal. So, the first odd thing was there was no disability specialist, just a judge and doctor. They asked me if I was happy to proceed that being the case and, not knowing how long it would be for the next appointment, I said yes. 
There was a couple of general questions about my claim, why I was appealing etc, and then the Judge advised that they (him and the GP) felt I had been overscored by the original HP and the MR, both of which had agreed the same points. 
(I had originally been awarded 11 points daily living and 0 points mobility) . 

To say I was surprised is an understatement. I only needed one more point for enhanced, which I was convinced I would get (for washing and bathing, I have spinal/ nerve issues) and I had medical evidence and proof from various health professionals and evidence of procedures that I felt would get me standard mobility.

They wouldn’t discuss with me what areas they felt I was overscored in, or if they had even considered my mobility etc, but I reluctantly agreed to withdraw my appeal at this point.

They will send me out a copy of their decision with the tribunal appeal ‘on hold’ while I get a chance to read their summary and make a decision. I can fully withdraw my appeal (in snake and ladders terms, all the way back to the bottom of the board) or decide to proceed with that warning that I may lose my award entirely.

Very frustrating afternoon. I have no idea if they felt I was overscored by 1 point or 5, or even what areas. I wasn’t even appealing most of them just 2 daily living descriptors (for additional points).

anybody else had similar situations? What did you do? 


Comments

  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,463 Championing
    At the hearing there is a Judge and usually up to 2 other independant people, including a doctor.

    Although you weren't appealing most of the descriptors, they look at the whole award again so yes, it's possible to lose points at a hearing. However, i'm glad to hear they gave you a warning before removing any points, which is the correct thing to do on the day. Or sometimes they will write to you with the warning before the day of the hearing.

    I'd advise you to get some expert advice from an agency near you. Start here. https://advicelocal.uk/welfare-benefits

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