REQUEST FOR FEEDBACK BY MODS

I thinks claimants are confused by misinformation from elsewhere (mainly DWP themselves !) and ask the same questions to make sure they get current information they see relevant to them right now. This gives reassurance especially if ability to read through the guides is limited. I guess that's why many become members : thinking they can ask and receive personal replies as "part of the service".

When reading the posts and seeing the same generic answers time and again, perhaps it gives the impression that the response it automated. I wonder if that sows the seeds of doubt about accuracy - hence "I'll post a request and see if it applies to me" search for reassurance.

And let's face it, when it comes to dealing with DWP we're all desperately anxious not to screw up !!

Hi Gordon, I am new to the forum, but not to the site. I have been using the guides for a couple of years. They have been invaluable as have the advice of all the moderators! My advice to members is that there is a lot of information in the guides so read through them first before going on the forum. Having said this, the forum provides great support and feeling that you are not alone! I also recommend that members read through what others have said on the forum. This can also be extremely helpful!

First of all I would say that I am amazed at the quick response we get to our questions.

I do realise that a lot of what we have posted is answered elsewhere, but it can be difficult to find the relevant answers. Sometimes from the title of the post it is difficult to research the answer.

Also, when people do not read their answers properly, it can be because of their panicked state.
I was always considered quite articulate, but the current situation seems to have destroyed that. So I do understand when people are confused and the mods. must get very frustrated.

Thanks for the opportunity to feed back mods and thank you for your work.
I did find navigating the site quite difficult at first, I went around in circles trying to get into the forum and my first post was a query for help with the initial phone conversation when applying for pip. I had read through all the guides several times and still didn't find any specific to my query. I found the reference to my needing to refer to FAQ frustrating as I had read through everything.
I don't know how as moderators you can remain as patient as you do as many posts are a cry for help and reassurance and a need for you to believe how unwell people say they are.
I commend you on your work, to me the answers are very clear and understandable, but many folk who post are clearly distressed.

I'm iliterae reain and undstan the past and gised are trublesom note you foult bat mine
gud site thou tank you.

I don't have a problem with the answers I receive for my questions. I do have a problem with the search facility so I find it easier to ask a question than search through hundreds of posts.
Thank you guys for all your time. You are very.much appreciated!