Video consultation help

C

You don't mention a benefit but I assume this is for PIP as you have mentioned this in recent posts.

There is a list of the questions you are likely to be asked in the PIP Claim, if it is not PIP then our ESA/UC guide has a similar list. There is also a section about telephone assessments which I would expect to be similar to a video assessment.

Don't be surprised if on the day the video call is switched to a phone one, we have seen this happen a number of times.

This could be a long call so make sure you are comfortably seated, have a drink available and a pen and paper available to take notes if able.

If you can, prepare a list of bullet points about your limitations and any other matters that you want to get across.

The law regarding the recording of a video call is quite complicated, doing so is also tricky, phone calls are much simpler and you can do so without the need to inform the assessor.

Best of luck.

Gordon

Hi Changes2023

Not trying to worry you, but the fact is there are no guarantees of anything in this process. I'm glad you have a GP's letter to back up your request for a paper-based assessment. Make sure that you keep a copy of the letter before sending it off - photograph it if necessary. Phone IAS and make the request for a paper-based assessment and tell them you have a letter from your GP, which you can post to them. Ask where to post it and send it by tracked post - so someone on the other end has to sign for it. Ensure you keep all details of the conversation you hold when you make the request. (Date, time, name of call-handler - what was said). You can also ask them about sending in the extra evidence. They don't have to take any notice of it, as your contact with mental health assessment is since you submitted the form and you haven't yet had contact with CHMT.

I would also send a copy of your doctor's letter along with a record of the conversation that you have with IAS to the DWP.

IAS will either agree to a change in assessment type or refuse. Be aware they may agree to not doing a video assessment, but change it to a telephone one. If they refuse to give you a paper-based assessment you can appeal a second time. Unfortunately, they do not have to agree even with your doctor's support. All you can do is try, and I'm glad you have the letter with the right wording on it. Good luck.

BIS