PIP & paper-based assessment

I have questions about the possibility of getting a paper-based PIP assessment.

My current award was paper-based at my request, due to mental health issues, autism, and more. I’m also hearing impaired.

I’m currently in the post-renewal-form limbo. I ticked the box to request paper-based when I sent the renewal form back, and included a supporting letter from my counsellor requesting it.

I got a text message yesterday from IAS saying they’ve made a telephone consultation for me. In the interim I received my SAR files back, which showed that DWP received my renewal form, and covering letter (which asked for a paper-based assessment so they don’t worsen my health).

What happens if I remind them I requested paper-based?

I know you can rearrange assessment appointments twice - does this use up one of those chances?

Will they automatically contact my GP? SAR shows they hadn’t, as of Dec just gone. My GP surgery aren’t particularly supportive, and have previously ticked the ‘can take public transport to attend assessment’ box, when there’s much more nuance than that.

Is there a limit on how many times one can have a paper-based assessment?

Thankyou.

I text-relayed IAS and asked. They said the following:

- they’d tried to assess on paper but need more information
- so they need to call, even if it’s short
- and it needs to be an assessment

I reiterated that my health means I can’t take part. (Surely there are other people so anxious they would freeze up and not answer the phone?)

Then they said I’d left them with no contact details (of anyone like a support worker). I included several with the renewal form.

Anyway, I confirmed my GP and therapist details (which haven’t changed), and they said they will send this request to the health professional and get back in touch.

Thanks, Gary. I thought companions weren’t supposed to answer for claimants, though? I live alone, so nobody actually knows what I’m like unless I tell them.

I got the appointment letter today - it says you can only rearrange the appointment once. I’m not holding my breath that they’ll agree to paper-based, but we’ll see. What on earth do they do with profoundly Deaf claimants?