I was told by Welfare Rights Officer that when PIP was introduced and the DWP dispensed with their in-house medical advice service, the Decision Makers kicked up a fuss as they quite rightly said they were not medically trained and could not possibly make decisions without expert input. How true this was I do not know but it sounds reasonable.
My last renewal was awarded by a DM. It was during Covid which really helped I think. I told them (and backed up) that I was CEV and that I would prefer paper-based, as a f2f would be unsafe for me. Mine was technically a ‘new application’ as my last award was given by a Tribunal; E/E for 5 years.
The DM awarded E/E for 6 years; basically 5 years off DWP drama, and a year to renew. I did spend 3 months doing the application and simultaneously did a MR to ensure all bases were covered and evidenced.
This time I also received MH points which I have never received before.. so I am ‘now’ well over the 12 point limit on both.. I also included relevant medical records from birth onwards.
