So, I need to appeal my PIP decision. I have a hard time explaining things so I've been reading through the legislation and racking my brain to try and come up with something reasonable. Its not finished yet, but I've written a few paragraphs and some notes on the back of an envelope which I will type out below, in the hope that anyone reading could tell me if it makes sense, or if they have any suggestions on how to word it better.
I got 0 points for mobility (I was hoping to get 8 to claim lower rate). I got 4 points for daily living (this was for social stuff, not sure if I'll be able to get any more here).
Here goes:
I got 4 points for "Needs social support to be able to engage with other people". The 8 point one requires you to have "overwhelming psychological distress". I'm not sure what this means or whether it would apply to me. The problem I have with social situations is that I have considerable social anxiety and often go out of my way to avoid people (even people I know), but this just exacerbates the loneliness and isolation. I do at times get worn out from dealing with other people. I can easily go several weeks at a time without speaking to anyone else except very brief interactions in shops etc. Any opinions on this are welcome.
Managing treatments - Got 0 points for this. I have had medication and psychotherapy before which has helped my conditions. I would like to consider having treatment again if any is available but I will need help to access this. - Not sure of the best way to explain this to DWP droids but I'm sure people here will be sympathetic to what I'm on about.
Making budgeting decisions - Might be able to get a couple of points for this but really not sure.
Planning and Following Journeys - I usually do the same journey repeatedly. Less frequent journeys need a lot of planning. Quite often I don't even bother going out due to tiredness. Need time afterwards to get over the stress. Therefore this cannot be done "repeatedly or reliably".
Other:-
The decision maker brought up the fact that I had driving lessons. I don't see how taking a few driving lessons 18 years ago is of any relevance to a PIP claim today. But even if it was I think I would have difficulty with concentration.
I have been suicidal a lot this last few years and am not sure whether to mention that I almost jumped out in front of a car a few months ago. I am very embarrassed writing this. I've lost count of the number of times I've stayed at home so I can listen to loud music to try and shut out intrusive thoughts. I have no medical evidence for this but I have discussed it with the Samaritans [yes, I know their phone number and address before anyone tells me].
Assessment - I do not particularly remember how I felt at or after the assessment but according to my diary I was tired, felt suicidal and was angry and upset about being reminded about my illnesses. The assessor, who did not have a name or job title, did not appear to have a copy of my claim form.
Medical Report - I have asked the DWP twice to supply a copy of this but after three months they have not done so. I have forwarded a complaint to my MP. It is difficult to write an appeal if I cannot see what evidence has been used.
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It took me a lot of effort and stress to come up with that so if anyone has any thoughts, please let me know. Thanks.
