DLA cooking test - microwave use

At DLA tribunal yesterday, the judge explained that the cooking test wasn’t about whether or not I actually cook, and included using a microwave - asked could I make a simple meal for myself using a microwave.

I said I didn’t know - I only really used a microwave to heat baked beans, and I couldn’t imagine trying several steps in a microwave.

Isn’t this wrong - the cooking test is about using a hob or an oven NOT a microwave, but PIP is possibly going to include microwave cookery?

If it has any bearing, my application was made in February. Just had the letter refusing me any level of DLA.

Best wishes all

See Use of oven, microwave and other adaptations

The relevant paragraphs start at 3.2.4.

Sorry Gordon your post wasn't there when I started writing.

See also this House of Lords decision which deals with the cooking test
Moyna v Sec of State for Work & Pensions

Thanks both, that's really helpful!

I thought that it was that microwaves weren't to be counted in the prep of a simple meal, but it's useful to know that isn't actually the case.

I'm definitely getting advice on this one!

The use of a microwave oven in the cooking test has changed over the years, often due to conflicting decisions by Social Security Commissioners and more recently Upper Tribunals.

Nowadays, it is possible for example to buy peeled and cut carrots, broccoli and cauliflower for one which can be steamed in the microwave oven which obviates the need to chop and peel vegetables and use a heavy pan. The same method can be used to steam small potatoes, or a jacket potatoes can easily be cooked in a microwave.

Small fillets of meat and/or fish can also be cooked to perfection in a microwave.

With some microwaves now having a grill and/or a combo oven have in my opinion led to a change in direction of the role of a microwave in recent times by Social Security Commissioners and Upper Tribunals.