Applying to increase PIP award

Hi,

I receive PIP higher rate daily living and lower rate mobility. I can't use trains or buses due to my disability. Being awarded higher rate for mobility would make a huge difference to my life as I'd be able to get out and about more (e.g. I'd be able to afford to travel to support groups).

I have been assessed under the Care Act and now receive support from social workers to make journeys I am unable to make alone (which is all journeys).

My questions are:

1. Would the DWP consider the Care Act assessment sufficient evidence to increase my award?
2. What is the process for applying to increase my award? Do I need to make the entire application over again?
3. Is there a chance they reduce my award?

Hi tranaldodumpo

If you are hoping for the mobility component of your PIP award to be increased, you will need to report "a change of circumstances'. This will immediately trigger a review, and you can say that your mobility has decreased. You can ask them to only consider the mobility component, but they have the right to look at both parts if they want to.

You can certainly tell them that you have been assessed under the Care Act and that you now receive support from social workers, but they will want to consider whether you meet the specific PIP criteria for mobility, so it doesn't automatically increase your entitlement.

When someone reports a change of circumstances, awards get increased or they remain the same. It's no common for an award to be decreased, but it's not impossible.

BIS