PIP Decision

Hi Fiona I'm sorry that you find yourself in this position. Mobility issues: Your mobility issues are variable from what you have written here. You say that sometimes you can't get off the couch - but the DWP will only take this into account if it is for the majority of the time eg four days our of seven. However, you might want to explain it as days - over six months or a year if that is applicable. It is always difficult when you have a condition that varies - to get across how much it impacts on you. Only you know how far the distance is from where you park to where you go in and whether you can argue that you can't walk that far. Some members have literally sent the actual measurement when in a similar position as yourself to disprove the assessor's guess. If it takes you twice as long as a person without your difficulties, then you should say so in your MR and point out this has not been taken into account. Also, reiterate the impact on you - of how you feel and how long it takes you to recover when you get to your desk. People often find themselves having to argue about the fact that they drive. The assessors are supposed to look at the bigger picture and consider whether you could travel by any mode of transport. It sounds as if travelling by bus or walking might be impossible for you - and you should say so. One thing you need to be aware of is that a number of claimants have argued about their lack of upper or lower body strength or both because of various medical conditions, and the DWP have asked why they are driving at all. Emergency stops, etc., must be performed regardless of whether a person drives a manual or automatic car. My point is to be careful about how you argue against the assessor's assumption. You should not be precluded from a mobility award just because you drive - but many people find that they are. Check out page 26 of the guide to PiP claims and reviews and see that you have covered every base regarding driving. There are also hints about what to say when your condition varies. Also, do look at the Guide to PIP Appeals, which has the information about putting in for an MR. benefitsandwork.co.uk/guides-for-claimants/pip If you have any further questions, do come back and ask.
BIS