successful PIP claim (higher) and what we did

[Rshc]

Hi, thanks so much to everyone here who offered advice on how to claim for PIP. We have heard today my partner has been awarded the higher amount for both living and mobility and this has been approved without a physical assessment OR a phone call. This is what we did in case it helps anyone. FYI this was his first PIP application and we submitted it mid October.

Firstly we used a local charity - not only did they complete the form for us and copy all our documentation they advised us on how to answer the questions fully and truthfully but in detail and without forgetting anything. They said in their experience people using a 3rd party (and I would recommend using a charity rather than a paid for service) have a better success rate

Secondly we sent tons of supporting documents including all of my partners various discharge letters, blood tests and transplant assessment, we also asked his transplant co-ordinator for a supporting letter which she provided. So keep everything you are sent/given as you may need it one day.

When filling in the form we had front of mind him on his worst day, when he can hardly move because he is so tired, when it wouldn't be safe for him to make a meal and when he is in so much pain in his arms and shoulders that he wouldn't be able to prepare food or even take a shower. We answered the questions based on this even though this isnt every single day.

We didnt just focus on his illness - we considered how the medication makes him feel - eg when he takes a lot of lactulose he doesn't like to leave the house because he needs to stay near to a loo. The water tablets he takes mean that he needs to pee frequently which can make going out difficult.

My partner suffers from some low level anxiety, it is important to go into detail about this too. For example, this means he cannot attend medical appointments alone and needs me there for support.

I am so grateful to everyone and hope this helps someone else. I think the main thing for me was getting support to fill in the forms and sending huge amounts of documentation

good luck to anyone doing this

[Katt12340]

Congratulations on his award! You give all of us fighting for pip a ray of hope.I'm awaiting tribunal after being turned down with very similar circumstances, so I totally understand your relief! I hope it helps his quality of life a little whilst he waits on the list 🤞🙏😊 x

[Rshc in reply to Katt12340]

best of luck - keep going. It will be worth it

[tipovtong]

Well done for sticking with it👍

[Rshc]

PIP is not means tested , we do not qualify for any other benefits