DWP issues advice to PIP claimants amid calls for change to 'unacceptable' assessment process

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has acknowledged that the procedure for obtaining Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is “being kept under review”. This follows a question by Liberal Democrat MP Ian Roome regarding why “reassessments are being scheduled for people with incurable disabilities and terminal illnesses”.

Citing a particular case, he pointed out the absurdity faced by one of his constituents on PIP, who is sight-impaired and deaf-blind registered, leaving them unable to use a phone or complete forms. In his response, the Minister for Social Security and Disabilities, Sir Stephen Timms stressed the importance of periodic PIP award reviews to ensure correct financial support levels.

He mentioned: "An online process is being trialled and we are looking at further potential improvements."

Sir Stephen also stated: “It is, of course, important that we keep the awards under review, because sometimes they go up as well as down and we want to ensure that the support being provided is appropriate for the claimant. We also need to ensure that the process is accessible - I agree with him about that.

Help can be provided to manage the assessment process. ” However, Labour MP Debbie Abrahams, the new chairwoman of the Work and Pensions Committee, contested this viewpoint, reports the Daily Record.

She highlighted the indignity suffered by many during the PIP application phase. Her comments in the House included: "It was reported in the Sunday papers that a blind woman with additional complex needs had her PIP assessment over the phone, which was approved, but then she was sent a letter to confirm that.

"Sense have stated that over half of the people they surveyed feel humiliated by the process. I know (Sir Stephen Timms) is eager to get this right, but could he elaborate a bit more on the changes they're making? "

Sir Stephen responded that the UK Government will "continue to look at" the assessment process. He added: "Clearly, it is absolutely vital that this process should be accessible to people with sight impairments or other impairments as well, and I completely agree with her."

PIP Assessment Providers

New online guidance has been launched to help individuals who are due for a health assessment determine which provider will conduct their evaluation. You can check this by entering your area or postcode on the GOV.UK website. If you are due for a PIP assessment or Work Capability Assessment (WCA), it will be conducted by the following company:

• Scotland (WCA only) and North England: Maximus UK Services Limited (previously Atos)
• Midlands and Wales: Capita Business Services (previously Capita)
• South West England: Serco (previously Atos)
• South East England, London and East Anglia: Ingeus UK Limited (previously Atos)
• Northern Ireland: Capita Business Services (previously Capita)

What is a PIP assessment?

The PIP assessment is an opportunity for you to discuss how your condition affects you - it's not a diagnosis of your condition or a medical examination.

The DWP will consider evidence from the assessment to decide if you should be awarded PIP. A health professional will carry out your assessment, write a report and send it to the DWP decision maker.

If you are waiting on a review, it's advisable to have a copy of your PIP evidence form with you for telephone, video and face-to-face assessments. This way, you can refer back to it, especially if it was completed a few years ago.

Talking about how your condition affects you

A useful guide on the Citizens Advice website suggests that you should be prepared to talk about how your condition affects you even if you've already detailed it on your PIP evidence form (the PIP2 document). This can be challenging, but it will be beneficial if you can discuss the kind of things you struggle with, or can't do at all - for example, walking up steps without assistance or remembering to go to appointments how your condition impacts your daily life.

For instance, you might describe a bad day as one where you're unable to walk due to severe pain in your injured leg, or perhaps a day when your depression is so overwhelming that you can't focus on anything.

Observations on what you say and do during the assessment

The assessor will not only consider the information provided in your PIP claim form but also take into account your behaviour and statements during the assessment.

For example, if you mention that you travelled to the assessment centre by bus without further explanation, they may infer that you are capable of travelling alone on public transport unless you specify otherwise. .

During a face-to-face assessment, you may be asked to perform certain physical tasks. It's important not to push yourself to do things that you wouldn't normally be able to do.

If you manage to do them on the day of the assessment, the assessor might assume that you can always do them. Therefore, if you're uncomfortable with something, make sure to voice your concerns.

In a telephone assessment, you might be asked to explain how you carry out simple tasks like preparing meals, getting dressed, and moving around outside your home. Don't feel pressured to respond quickly; remember, they have your claim form in front of them and are asking questions based on the answers you've already provided.

Think before replying

Take a moment to think before responding. Break down your answer and guide them through how you complete tasks step-by-step to give an accurate representation of how your disability or health condition affects you.

While the process may seem lengthy to you, it's crucial for the assessor to understand how you complete tasks - so avoid rushing or oversimplifying your methods. The assessor will also take note of your mental state during the assessment - they'll record whether you appear or sound depressed or happy, tense or relaxed, and how you handle social interaction.

Remember, you can have someone with you during the phone, video call or in-person assessment - just ensure the call is on loudspeaker and inform the assessor who is present. .

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides guidance on attending an assessment, which can be found on the GOV. UK website.

You're allowed to bring someone aged 16 or over into the actual assessment. This could be anyone who makes you feel more at ease, such as a friend, relative or carer.

If you wish, they can participate in discussions and jot down notes for you. .

Before attending a face-to-face assessment, check with your assessment provider that the centre has everything you need - if not, you can request it. This can help make you feel more comfortable on the day.

Here are a few examples:

• ask if you will have to go upstairs, and if there’s a lift that can accommodate a wheelchair if you need one
• ask how roomy the centre is if you get anxious in enclosed spaces - if the rooms or corridors are small, tell them this could make you anxious and see what they can offer you
• ask for an interpreter or signer if you need one - do this at least two working days before your assessment so they have time to organise it
• ask for the person carrying out the assessment to be the same gender as you, if that’s important to you
• ask if you can make an audio recording of the assessment - you must do this three days before your assessment and ask your provider about the rules for using recording equipment

If the location of your face-to-face assessment is more than 90 minutes away by public transport and travelling long distances poses a challenge, you might be offered an alternative location or home visit. Refer to the newly published guidance which includes travel restriction advice for Scotland, England and Wales.