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Refused paper based pip renewal assessment despite extreme distress

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2 years 1 month ago #278513 by lianna
Hi, I was more or less bullied into attending my first and only pip assessment a few years ago and found it si distressing l self harmed before and after (I don't use anything I scratch/bite myself when under extreme distress). My mobility payment was completely cut even though I have ptsd adhd and sciatica but too distressed to appeal. I decided never again would i put myself through that Now I've been told for the renewal I have to have an online video assessment (as I refuse to give my phone number). I managed to get the courage to call them and challenge this, since then things have worsened as my dad who was my only close family passed away in September also I have metatarsalgia which affects my mobility. The lady on the phone was really sympathetic when I explained about the self harming and said she would request a paper based assessment, but I had a letter through yesterday saying no they will be sending me another appt. Since then I have had several panic attacks and keep shaking. Can I stall them whilst I get a doctors letter as they don't know about the metatarsalgia? What else can I do? This is inhuman. Also when they refused my mobility they said if I was too distressed to travel except by cab it was up to me to fund these journeys as that was not what mobility allowance was for. I'm sure I have read different.

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2 years 1 month ago #278538 by Gordon
lianna

The first thing you need to do is establish whether what I assume is now a cancelled video assessment, has been counted against the two opportunities you have to attend an assessment.

If it has then your options are more limited as a second failure to participate will result in your file being returned to the DWP.

If it wasn't then you will have more time and can if necessary cancel this new appointment.

What you need to provide is a letter from your GP confirming that any participatory assessment will be detrimental to your health and specifically that attending will cause you "overwhelming psychological distress".

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems

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2 years 1 month ago #278560 by lianna
Thanks Gordon. I spoke to them again today and she discussed it with her manager and made it clear that I was too disressed for any type of assessment. They have cancelled both appointments and neither counts as a refusal to attend. I am also seeing the doctor on Monday and will get a letter of support.

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