DWP update on PIP assessments for people with these conditions

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an update on support available to people claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The benefit provides payments to people who live with a long-term health condition or disability.

The amount you get depends on your level of need. Claimants often have an assessment to establish how their condition affects them, which can then determine how much support they need.

The Government has provided details about support available to those with a brain injury or a neurological condition after two MP questions about the adequacy and fairness of PIP assessments. Work and Pensions minister Sir Stephen Timms said in response: "Health assessments are designed to treat all individuals with health conditions and impairments fairly.

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"The assessment criteria take account of the impact of all impairments on an individual’s ability to carry out a broad range of everyday activities." He said the feasibility of a paper-based assessment would be considered in the first instance, rather than having to do it over the phone or in person.

Health professionals acting on behalf of the DWP may contact GPs or other medical professionals if more information is needed for this paper-based review, Express reports. If a paper-based option is not viable, claimants can be allocated to a 'specific assessment channel' depending on their condition and circumstances.

If you need an in-person or over the phone assessment, you could have a companion who can 'play an active role' in providing the necessary information. Mr Timms said: "This is helpful for claimants with mental, cognitive, or intellectual impairments who may not be able to provide an accurate account of their condition, due to a lack of understanding or unrealistic expectations of their ability.

"Companions can join the telephony assessment, as they would have for a face-to-face assessment." All DWP assessment suppliers can do four-way calls if needed.

Mr Timms added: "This means the claimant and the HP can be joined by a companion or advocate as well as an interpreter if required. This gives claimants the opportunity to have the appropriate support during a remote assessment."

PIP payments are made up of a mobility element and a daily living element, with a lower and higher payment rate depending on your level of need. These are the current payment rates:

Mobility

• Lower - £28.70

• Higher - £75.75.

Daily living

• Lower - £72.65

• Higher - £108.55