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Hearing loss PIP points with/without flashing light smoke alarm fitted

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2 years 2 months ago #274469 by MuttonJeff
Hello,

As I will soon be living alone I'll be making a first PIP claim having not worked 6 years, and now almost 60 only just been diagnosed on autistic spectrum and with ADHD. My physical health is also declining, thumb arthritis, severe IBS, hypothyroidism, I'm being investigated for foot pain most likely arthritis, and suspected spinal issues, and I also have long standing moderate to profound hearing loss.What a wreck, however my ADHD means I push myself to the limits on physical challenges so research will show I've run half marathons up to 2018!

I've read the ruling regards bathing safely awarding points for hearing loss and I can't hear any alarm without two hearing aids. Would there be any difference to the award whether or not the specialist deaf smoke alarm systems are fitted? In another area (2009) I was assessed as high risk and fitted with bed shaker linked smoke alarm for free, so i'm going to apply again as I live in a different LA now and no longer have the old equipment. I'm hoping there's a light warning available for the bathroom. Are points awarded because you need the device, I'm concerned that having one means I would be safe and get no points! I have to buy a special bed shaker alarm clock anyway.

Many thanks for all the really helpful information on this site, I'm confident I should receive living allowance, probably higher rate, and will push for mobility basic due to my hearing loss and severe anxiety problems. I find it really difficult to know which level to select on the mobility questions, I have so many issues that fluctuate, from agoraphobia not leaving the house, excessive anxiety planning and rechecking maps, street views etc when I go on any unfamiliar trips, and I cannot make out train station tannoy announcements at all. But when feeling better I have gone away on challenging group hikes as recently as early this year, although my foot issues are likely to stop me doing this again I've got x-rays tomorrow, and a steroid injection booked for my thumb in couple of weeks, also assessment of my spine (suspect ankylosing spondylitis 30 years ago).

The PIP questions are so difficult to get my head around, especially with so many different health issues. I know most people wouldn't realise they could claim based on the wordings! TIA

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2 years 2 months ago #274494 by Gordon
MuttonJeff

I am not sure how well this change to the DWP guidance has been tested so I can't give a definitive answer.

The DWP's view is that a visual alarm would remove the need for supervision, however, in doing this they are inevitably creating a need for an aid which would score the same 2 points.

I would keep it simple, you don't have one and may not be be able to have on suject to the whims of your Local Authority and that you can show a need for such a device based on the alarm fitted to your bed.

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems

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