DREADED PIP REVIEW - SHOULD I ADMIT ALCOHOL PROBLEM

Hi DYLANC,
Definitely mention all your medical conditions, including alcoholism. As you are no doubt aware, alcoholism is a medial condition, and therefore is totally relevant. - I suspect that there are PIP activities that you struggle to do simply because of your alcohol problems, or that this aggravates the problems already caused by your heart condition.
A recent case discussed the misuse of alcohol and how it could affect PIP activities - here is the link if you want to read it -https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/59885c1ce5274a1707000081/CPIP_3126_2016-00.pdf ( this is the case of SD v SSWP)
I have written some comments about possible problems identified in the above case and also issues that I am aware of from other claimants - these are things you might wish to consider when you write your form-
For example, does the alcohol mean that you forget to do things, like turn off the cooker, remember to take medicines, or record your blood pressure? Perhaps you forget to eat, or don't cook meals because you are in an alcohol induced sleep? Equally consider whether your intake of alcohol means that although you can function reasonably well and do PIP activities safely and to an acceptable standard at the beginning of the day, but as you drink more and more tasks are less likely to be done, or are done less reliably. (Activities have to be done properly across the whole day, every day.) Think about whether your alcohol abuse affects your ability to communicate or be able to engage (socialise) with others. Perhaps it increases your anxiety so it is more difficult to follow a route and get home safely. Think generally whether you have had accidents or situations where you have become unsafe as a consequence of drinking. This could be as a result of being unsteady on your feet, losing a grip of eg a knife whilst cooking, or getting lost or aggressive when outside.
Be brutally honest about your alcohol misuse, even though you may think this to be embarrassing. It is part of your overall health conditions, and I am sure does affect you considerably. If you do not mention this DWP will not get the full picture of your disabilities, and hence you are unlikely to get he correct PIP award, or indeed any award.
Explain also about the mental health problems you have and being admitted to the various detox units. Describe why you went there, what happened and whether they succeeded or not and why. This is all very important as it shows what makes you 'you'. Again very helpful background information. You could include this in the 'extra information' section using extra pages if need be. (Clearly write your name and NI Number on each page.)
I wish you all the best.
Good luck.
Let us know how you get on.
LL26

Hi DYLANC,
No need to quote the link at this stage, it was really so you could have a point of reference to see how Judges think about alcoholism.
Good luck with the form. We'll all be waiting here to know how you get on.
LL26

Hi DYLANC

Keep trying to get through by phone, the best time to try and contact is first thing in the morning when they open, waiting times are usually shorter.

I know it can be frustrating waiting for someone to answer, I have on many occasions waited on the phone for over an hour for an answer.

I usually put the phone on loud speaker whilst I do other chores.

You do need your Recorded Delivery number to hand, I also have the time of delivery and who signed for it, which you can get from the Royal Mail website.

Remember this Monday will be a bank holiday so don't try and contact, try the next day.

Gary