PIP

[manwithnoname]

The brown envelope has changed to a white one to tell me that I have an appointment on Thursday at 3.00pm in Liverpool for my pip assessment. I just hope that I can get my mobility scooter on the train cos if I cant then I cant go.

[Braecoon]

Could you request a home assessment?

[nomoreheels]

That's a fair old trek Alan if it's the city centre or beyond & not your side. I'd ask if there isn't an assessment centre nearer if you can be assessed in your home. I certainly wouldn't risk turning up at the station & not having suitable access for your mobility scooter. The assessment I had was at Tulketh Brow (approx 13 miles from home which I thought acceptable) but I had the benefit of being driven by my h. Another thing to think about is how you answered the planning a journey part of PIP, if you go by train & find the assessment centre easily this proves you can plan & follow a journey without help. If you've claimed you're unable to then I'd ask for transport to be arranged, a taxi capable of taking your mobility scooter, then ask for a travel expenses claim form when you arrive at reception, that would work but of course depends how you answered that part of the form. Also if you're being accompanied, no extra bod's ticket to pay for.

[Crusee]

I phoned the assessment team and explained that I couldn't use public transport because of my poor mobility and they arranged a home visit for me.They didn't turn up for the first one as the appointment before mine had overrun and they told me to phone and make another date .I was incensed as this date was done at their convenience and then they don't turn up.I rang and complained and made a bit of a fuss and someone came out 2 days later to see me.I was also successful in my application for PIP,but interestingly only got the standard rate of mobility allowance even though I can't stand up for more than 2-3 mins at any one time.

Not sure where you live or if alternative sites are offered but I live in Wales.

Good luck hope it goes well.

Crusee

[beeckey]

They put a ramp up so you can go up it with your scooter and the ticket attendant will phone ahead the station where you get off and you will be met with the ramp but if is a long way i would ask to be seen somewhere closer and good luck x

[craigsif]

Ask for a home assement, as you don't need the stress and you have a mobilty problem. Warmest  Craig

[manwithnoname]

Thanks to you all for your advice. I have spoken with Atos today and they will be making a home visit so I don't need to try and go by train.

[nomoreheels in reply to manwithnoname]

That's great, I'm pleased you asked. Good luck for when the time comes.

[Stephenlangtonriley in reply to manwithnoname]

It would be advisable to request that it is recorded, although they will probably say you have to get the kit, very expensive and give them a copy. They won't let you record on a computer or pocket recorder even if you offer to give them a copy.

If they refuse to record it then it is essential you have a witness and whatever you do remember this is not a job interview, dress in your normal, easier to get on, clothes, don't tell them about your best days as that will be recorded as normal, your worst days are the ones that count. Behave normally, don't try and do things that you find difficult, you are permitted to say no, they will be in the wrong if they insist, a tribunal will overturn it. Make sure your witness takes notes, even better if they can do shorthand, also make sure those notes include the manner in which questions are asked, smilies can be useful quick tools for manner of questions.

The most important thing to remember, the DWP deny it, is ATOS are employed to maximise rejections, 50% get overturned but it is a nightmare process that you will want to avoid.

Good luck