One lung

[Toby14]

I had my right lung removed and was awarded mobility allowance. Im67 and waiting for pip assessment. I need this help as it gets harder getting around as I get older. What are my chances. I have asthma in my remaining lung

[Soul01]

Toby14 it all comes down to the points you score and the evidence you can provide. If you can provide evidence about your walking being very limited (no more than 20 metres), reliably, safely, as often as you need to, then you should be fine. Best to get that evidence from a doctor or physio’

A word of advice: PIP assessors ask how you got to the venue, and often watch people get out of a vehicle and walk into the building (even though they shouldn’t). Make sure you don’t fall foul of this!

[Toby14 in reply to Soul01]

Thanks. I heard they can be ruthless

[Soul01 in reply to Toby14]

The DLA criteria looked at a 50 metre distance. Pip looks at 20 metres. It has caused a lot of hassle for people.

[Toby14 in reply to Soul01]

Well I'm a lot slower now . As I get older breathing gets worse. I hope I get someone who shows compassion. Thanks a lot soul01

[Soul01 in reply to Toby14]

Hope it goes well.

[Toby14 in reply to Soul01]

👍

[COPD123491 in reply to Toby14]

Toby

These people don't have compassion. Their sole aim is to ensure that you don't get the benefit. If you feel that bad, ask for a home visit and DO NOT offer them tea or coffee or jump up if they "accidentally" drop something. They are there to observe and to ask a lot of questions. Make sure that you concentrate on what you are UNABLE to do e.g. unable to walk 20 metres, unable to cook for yourself, personal hygiene etc. The inability to walk 20 metres is vital to the mobility component. You must remember that the bulk of the assessors are not fully trained medical personnel. I had a friend who was visited by a paramedic. I saw the report and it was total nonsense in that he seemed to make it up as he went along. I had filled the form for this friend and, when he was disallowed, we appealed and won the appeal. Finally do not exaggerate your symptoms as this is where most people are caught out. I wish you well.

Kevin

[Toby14 in reply to COPD123491]

Thanks for the advice Copd123491

[Symes]

You might be better going for Attendance Allowance if I’m honest, especially if someone helps you with your care, like a husband or wife. Child, or grandchild. Whomever it may be. They can then also claim Carers Allowance for you.

gov.uk/attendance-allowance...

[Sunnyjo68]

Hi there

I have been awarded the lower rate pip for mobility.. letter stated they appreciate I am getting worse but as over state pension age ( I am 68) it stops entitlement to the higher rate. You will hopefully get something and beware of the assessors remember they work for the DWP ! Have you asked for a home visit. You are entitled to that. Someone has mentioned attendance allowance which is another route if you are struggling to cope. Good luck x

[Toby14 in reply to Sunnyjo68]

Thanks sunnyjo68

[katieoxo60]

Hi there this is a classic sign of changed benefit rules. Your lung problems classify you as disabled, but DWP need proof of how this effects your daily living.IE, reduced lung function limiting the speed at which you can walk, breathlessness no doubt, unable to do heavy exercise. the walking test is not about being able to walk it is about , safety, effects on your health, pain free, consistency of walking, fall risk. Of cause if you use aids that helps too in decisions, as does wheelchair use. Fear of falling is also a reason that impedes walking, as are some mental health issues.Good Luck

[Toby14 in reply to katieoxo60]

As stated i have asthma in my remaining lung which varies from day to day. my speed is slower and i have lost the ability to lift anything heavy. I couldn’t carry a heavy shopping bab. just impossible.I can only do my best when it’s time for my interview. I wish it was a lung specialist interviewing me. When you have no medical problems how can you comprehend what other people are going through. thanks katieoxo60

[katieoxo60 in reply to Toby14]

So true, we need assessors with individual health experience of the effects of illness not just diagnosis. Also they do not take into account multifactual effects, i.e more than one illness, age or more than one disability. Stairs are a problem for lung & heart sufferers, not all pavements or entrances to home are flat but all assessments are based on flat areas. Heres an example., due to four different problems I have difficulty carrying a tray but I still carry one and take the risk, last year I severely burnt myself carrying a small tray and still have the scar to prove it Some things cannot be covered by a simple yes or no can they. ?

[Toby14]

Too right katieoxo69. Hope your wounds are healing well.thanks to every one who replied to me.