PIP

Hi Olive,
The descriptors in planning journeys basically step up from each one. Unlike some descriptors where you get different points for slightly different problems, such as washing over body or washing Upper body, journeys descriptor is graded. Regulation 7 PIP Regs requires that you should receive the highest points value where 2 or more descriptors in a set apply equally. Thus, is you can't do familiar OR unfamiliar journeys without being accompanied then familiar journeys is the highest value and therefore this should be awarded. Because of the graded structure if this particular descriptor set, it should be a given that if you can't do familiar journeys to the required standard, you therfore can't do the unfamiliar ones either.
If this is the case you should be thinking how you should argue your case to show this.
What happens if you go out alone?
Do you go alone?
Why can't you go out alone?
When did you last go out alone?
These questions might help you to explain your difficulties.
Remember that there are 4 criteria which need to be fulfilled fir all descriptors- all 4 must apply
Safety
Reasonable time
Repetition
Acceptable standard
Maybe you are vulnerable, get lost and there are genuine safety implications?
You may take too long.
If you get anxious, feel ill, (and this doesn't have to be overwhelming psychological distress) heart racing etc this could indicate not being acceptable.Getting lost might be unacceptable and may make any journey take too long.
Likewise if the effort is too much or the anxiety is, then you might not be able to reormeatcscriss the day ir even next few days.
(See members guides for more details on these so-called reliability criteria)
Also, you only have to have the problem for the majority if days so an occasional trip alone eg to the GP won't preclude the award.
I hope this helps.
LL26