P.I.P telephone assessment - Fibromyalgia Acti...

Fibromyalgia Action UK

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P.I.P telephone assessment

Camhanaich profile image
7 Replies

Hi all

I received a text on Tuesday, telling me that I have a PIP telephone assessment on Tuesday 21st July, at 9.15am.

So five days from now, I am expecting ... well frankly a 'grilling', from someone who will likely set out to 'rubbish' anything I have to say, then write a report based purely on their 'gut feelings' and interpretations, or what I do actually say.

I currently have this viewpoint, as to be frank I have seen nor heard nothing, that would make me feel otherwise. I feel enough of a 'fraud' as it is, as I come from that group who always 'get up, stop moaning, and get on with it.

Does anyone have any advice as to how to go about this 'phone assessment', without me expecting a 'combative' experience.

Tom

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Camhanaich profile image
Camhanaich
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7 Replies
Dinkie profile image
Dinkie

Hi, having gone through it myself I would offer the following tips. Firstly make yourself comfortable in a quiet place without interruption. I had phone on speaker so my partner could hear and comment/prompt if necessary. Have all your paperwork to hand highlighting anything you wish to expand on/give examples of.

Do not let the assessor rush you or cut you off mid sentence - just ask them politely to let you finish explaining. Don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat the question. It really isn’t a combative experience - they have a list of questions and you answer them.

Go into it with a positive mindset - some people do get PIP first time around and some don’t that’s the way of the World if you don’t get it then ask for the report and ask for MR, but take it one step at a time.

Good luck.

Fibroeric99 profile image
Fibroeric99 in reply to Dinkie

Sorry what does MR stand for? Thanks.

Dinkie profile image
Dinkie in reply to Fibroeric99

Mandatory Reconsideration. If you believe they have misunderstood how you are affected by your illnesses and you have not been awarded what you think you should be getting then the next stage is to request a copy of the report and send a letter asking for a MR listing all the errors/misunderstandings together with any supporting documentation. There is a time limit for asking for MR. If you are not successful at the MR stage then the next stage is an Appeal.

YASMINTINA profile image
YASMINTINAFMA UK Volunteer

Hello , a very good reply from member Dinkie , hope it goes well for you 😀

I've got the same next Friday already getting a bit stressed worrying about good luck though

Rosimadd profile image
Rosimadd

Hi I had my phone assessment about 2 months ago. It took about a hour and a half. I agree get comfy and have the phone on loud speaker, be clear on what you have difficulties doing and if you use mobility aids within the home. They are friendly but firm.

I did get pip first time so it is achievable. I wish you luck and sending gentle hugs. (Don't get stressed and don't worry if you don't get it first time as there is MR.

Good luck xx

My telephone assessment was really nothing to worry about. The woman doing it was nice and friendly, she was typing everything i said so she often said could i pause while she caught up. She didnt interegate me, or ask me anything that wasnt on the forms i sent in. She just wanted to confirm everything i had said, you really shouldnt worry yourself in advance. make sure your in a comfortable place as my call lasted well over an hour, have a drink handy and ask questions if you have any. 3 weeks later i was awarded enhanced for both components

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