DWP to review of PIP assessment process after claims of 'humiliation' of disabled claimants
by William Morgan, Linda Howard · ChronicleLiveThe Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that the application process for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is being "kept under review". This follows a query from Liberal Democrat MP Ian Roome, who questioned why "reassessments are being scheduled for people with incurable disabilities and terminal illnesses", highlighting the case of a constituent who is sight-impaired, deaf-blind registered and unable to use a phone or fill out forms.
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disabilities, explained that PIP award reviews are necessary to ensure claimants receive the correct amount of financial support. He added: "An online process is being trialled and we are looking at further potential improvements."
The minister agreed that the DWP needed to ensure the disability assessments were "accessible" and hinted that changes might be on the way for the much-claimed benefit.
He said: "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. "He added: "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."
The new chair of the Work and Pensions Committee, which oversees the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), has echoed claims that individuals are left feeling "humiliated" during the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application process. Labour MP Debbie Abrahams brought up the issue following a report in the Daily Record, reports the Manchester Evening News.
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She apprised her colleagues, stating: "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."
She went on to highlight, "Sense have said that over half of people that they have surveyed feel humiliated by the process. I know (Sir Stephen Timms) wants to get this right and is very keen, but can he expand a little bit more on the type of things that they're changing? " Sir Stephen responded confirming the government's intention to reassess how accessible their processes are, especially for those with visual impairments or other disabilities, noting, "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."
To explain what involves a PIP assessment, it is an opportunity for individuals to discuss how their condition impacts their life rather than being a medical examination or diagnosis. A health professional conducts the assessment, writes a report, and subsequently forwards it to the DWP decision-maker for final evaluation.
If you're awaiting a review, it's advisable to keep a copy of your PIP evidence form handy for telephone, video and face-to-face assessments. This allows you to refer back to it, particularly if it was filled out a few years ago.
A useful guide on the Citizens Advice website suggests being ready to discuss how your condition impacts you, even if you've already detailed this on your PIP evidence form (the PIP2 document). It might be challenging, but it will be beneficial if you can discuss: the tasks you struggle with or cannot do at all - such as climbing stairs unaided or remembering appointments; how your condition affects your daily life; what a bad day looks like for you - for instance, 'On a bad day, I can't walk at all due to severe pain in my injured leg' or 'On a bad day, I'm so depressed I can't focus on anything'.
The assessor will use the information you provided on your PIP claim form but will also form opinions based on what you say and do during the assessment. For example, they may ask how you arrived at the centre for a face-to-face assessment - if you mention that you took the bus, without further clarification, they could note that you are capable of travelling alone on public transport - unless you specify otherwise.
During the face-to-face assessment, you may be asked to perform some physical tasks. However, don't feel compelled to do things that you wouldn't normally be able to do.
If you perform them on the day of the assessment, the assessor might assume you can always do them. So, if you're uncomfortable with something, speak up.
In a telephone assessment, you might be asked to describe how you carry out simple tasks such as preparing and cooking food, getting dressed, and moving around outside your home. Don't rush your response; remember, they are reviewing your claim form and asking the same questions you've already answered.
Take a moment to think before responding. Break down your answer and guide them through how you complete tasks step-by-step to provide an accurate depiction of how your disability or health condition affects you.
What might seem like a lengthy process for you will clearly demonstrate to the assessor how you accomplish tasks, so don't try to speed up or simplify your actions.
The assessor will also take note of your mental state during the assessment - for instance, they will record whether you appear or sound depressed or happy, tense or relaxed, and how you handle social interaction.
Remember, during the assessment, you can have someone with you, whether it's over the phone, on a video call, or in person. Just ensure to put the call on speaker and inform the assessor who is accompanying you.
Having someone with you for support during a face-to-face assessment can be beneficial.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides guidelines on attending an assessment, available on the GOV. UK website.
Individuals aged 16 or above are permitted to accompany you during the actual assessment. This could be a friend, family member, or carer who can help you feel more at ease.
If desired, they can participate in discussions and jot down notes on your behalf.
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