In the PIP AR1 - where you have to list the health professionals and tick-box the 'i agree consent to approach them' - i get that i allow consent to approach them.
However if i itemise without naming 'a friend or family member sometimes helps me'... with a given activity - but i dont identify them or specifiy consent to approach them - is a decision maker / case handler entitled to go on to social media or the internet and hunt down potential candidates to contact by phone or letter to check my statement without phoning and seeking my consent ?
If they did do this, is it a breech of law or are they in their right because i've indicated as such in the manner explained ?
It seems to me it's a review not an investigation and so consent has to be obtained to approach any third party indicated, whether named in person or not. Am i right in thinking this ?
If you or the people you refer to expose their personal data to the internet so that it can be viewed by anybody then there would be nothing to stop the DWP from searching for it, however, the people reviewing your claim won't have any interest in doing this.
Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
