Extra support indicator

I have got the news that a decision can be made on my transfer to pip without a face-to-face (thank goodness) and been told my application has an "extra support indicator". Now, I'm not sure exactly what that means, as due to complex mental health issues, I regularly self harm, am classed as a vulnerable adult and made another suicide attempt fairly recently. Do you think that the dwp have also classed me as being vulnerable due to my history? In practice, I don't know what this indicator means, for Example do they try to get a decision made slightly faster than if the indicator wasn't there?? Tbh, the whole system baffles me and I dont really know what's what! At least we have these guides to help us out, without which I would probably just give up.

Hello,
I think its the 'Additional Support To COMPLY' marker I have. From PIP1 call. If you have severe mental health probs & have been hospitalised they are meant to give you more time to get help to fill the PIP form in. They won't cancel the claim immediately if they don't get the form back. You can look the pathway up on GOV/UK.

I didn't get any extra time beyond the 2 week extension. They refused to defer PIP reassessment to allow me to have planned treatment, which they could allow. I'm afraid there is little understanding of mental health probs in the system. If they really think actively suicidal people could cope with a work related activity interview with a DWP person they must be mad! Ha Ha. I work every day to survive & not slip back into the dark pit. I have regular medical treatment & counselling, follow exercise & sleep routines. What else can I do. No one with a disability chooses to be like this.

I also think it means they may try to do a paper assessment if you give them strong evidence directly related to the descriptors and you have proof from GP/ CMHT you are at real & considerable risk of suicide: ie recent attempt or recent significant self harm.
They may be using the significant risk factors from ESA as I've just been reassessed.

I wouldn't describe 6 months of torture & still waiting for a decision so close to Christmas extra tlc I'm afraid.
Best wishes

Thanks for your input Susie.

May I just pick up on your mention of 'work related activities' and point out that these are not part of PIP (just in case it confuses anyone reading your message)?

Sorry for confusing people Mrs Hurtyback. I am very worried about the green paper proposing all people with mental health problems & musc/skeletal disabilities will have to attend a jobcentre plus interview to discuss potential work related activities.

CMHT would be best placed to do this as part of the care plan to get better/manage problems. BUT no resources! I'm all for trying to do some therapeutic activities with support to help confidence & isolation.
Best wishes

Yes, I tend to think that it's some sort of warning for them (dwp) in case I slid into the abyss again... Ie they can cover themselves.... As I say, this whole thing is a complete nightmare, and yes Susie I agree with you.... Who actually wants to live like this in constant mental trauma.... Oh well, you never know, it may be sorted by 2017 x