Pip Renewal

Hi, I've been asked to come in for a face to face review.

Which I could probably manage with some help and a lot of discomfort, but It would just be me alone in the room with them.

They have offered an appointment over the phone as an alternative.

Is there anything I'd be risking by having a phone call?

Hi Kendod666, whether you go for 'phone or do do the F2F, please, please everybody reading this, insist on a recording. This is your right. You need to tell them ASAP. It may cause a delay because many assessors refuse to be recorded. But think: would you want to be assessed by a person who does not want to be on the record???

I'd strongly suggest you also do one of your own, as they seem to be quite good at er, losing, theirs before you get your copy. Ideally have a friend sit in which is also your right, and let them manage the switching the recording on when the call comes, so you can concentrate on the call.
There's good advice in the guide on dealing with a phone assessment.
Best wishes,
Denby

Hi Kendod666,

Just a word of warning. A couple of years ago I bought two identical tape recorders and, with the Assessment Provider's permission, recorded my assessment,

I scored zero points. Just because you have your assessment on record doesn't mean you have immunity from a 'dodgy' assessor's report.

The report was full of mistruths and, to be honest, lies. I did get my award reinstated at the MR stage, though.

As for the recording; the DWP said that this was of insufficient quality to judge the content due to the clarity of the recording, This was in part untrue as we listened to it, and although the recording wasn't great, you could hear what was being said.

I personally believe it was a get out clause and have serious doubts as to whether the tape had been listened to at all.

I'm not trying to put a damper on things. Obviously a recording stands you in better stead, but just be aware of the pitfalls you may encounter.

I wish you the best of luck.

Regards,

Phrank.

Thanks. I think I'll go for a phone one.
I can record it on my tablet.

It'll get declined probably, I'll do the MR and that'll be declined and then tribunal which they then back out of.