Make claim for PIP Allowance

[Taz777]

I have polycythemia vera have since 2019. I want to claim PIP not sure i am entitled to it. My family telling me i should be applying for this because of my condtion. I make sure my consultant knows i am feeling ok with the lowest dosage interferon every 2 weeks. I dont want to loose my treatment saying negative things that i get tied sometimes, etc. My bloods are all good level using the lowest dosage since 2020. Recently started to itch on my arms and stomach past 3 months.

Has someone tried to apply what was the process and what evidence do i need to show. Do i get medical checked by one of there medical assessments

In the uk 45 years old

[Kari1961]

Hi Taz. I claim PIP (Daily Living - standard rate) But wasn't successful at claiming the mobility element.

Mine was claimed due to the after effects of a Stroke I had in 2012 (cognitive impairment, essential tremor, a weak right leg and foot drop) - I also have PV. The evidence I submitted was a letter from my GP and the letters/documents from visits to see my neurologist/stroke doctor and haem. Plus the claim form - which is long and detailed, you have to show how your disability impacts your daily life. Basically, you submit everything you have to show that you need to claim it.

I had an assessment interview, but not a medical assessment. I would suggest that there is no harm in trying, if they say no you can appeal against the decision.

Mine was accepted after the assessment interview, I was given it for 3 years and have to reclaim it next year. If I remember correctly, the first payment is backdated to the date you made the claim.

Hope this helps - Kari.

[JackandRose]

Hi Taz. PIP is based not on your diagnosis but how you are disabled by your condition. There are two parts - the mobility component and the care component. The assessment process is by a form you need to complete that asks questions about how you are affected by your condition. Post COVID you don’t always have a f2f interview but you may have a telephone call. It’s helpful to put in a supporting letter from a doctor or specialist nurse. To get the mobility component you have to be unable or virtually unable to walk. To get the care component you have to need help with bodily functions - washing, dressing, reading, hearing. Check out the Citizens Advice website for information on the descriptors and how many points you have. It is always helpful to have an advice worker to help you with the form.

Good luck. Rosemary

[Dodders]

Hi, I applied for PIP when I was at my lowest ebb health wise but was refused. My understanding is that it is assessed on the basis that if you were not to receive it then you would need additional support or have to go into care, i.e. it is to enable you to continue to be, essentially, independent. I was however deemed eligible for Employment Support Allowance which was better than nothing as I was no longer well enough to work and was reliant upon my long suffering wife to support me. Good luck