PIP update: Hi to everyone on this sunny day from Wales... - NRAS

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PIP update

freesthomas profile image
14 Replies

Hi to everyone on this sunny day from Wales ☀️☀️. I wanted to update you all on my recent transfer from DLA to PIP application. Way back in March time, I had some amazing advice and help from some of you on this forum including NRAS. I sent off for the booklet from NRAS which helped me enormously in filling out the application form. I also sent off supporting evidence. 6 weeks later, I attended the assessment with Capita. Yesterday which was about 2.5 weeks since the assessment, I received the letter from DWP and they have awarded me what I felt I was entitled to 👍. It said that I would have it for ten years so I was over the moon with this. I wanted to share the good with everyone especially as hopefully it will give others hope aswell. Since PIP started there have been a lot of horror stories so in amongst that, it is good to know that it's not all doom and gloom and sometimes the right decisions are made. Fingers crossed to all those going through it that the outcome will be right xx

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freesthomas profile image
freesthomas
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14 Replies
nomoreheels profile image
nomoreheels

Yay! So pleased you've received what you thought you should. Thanks for posting this, yes it does help others both at the beginning of the process & going through the changeover. Buy yourself a treat to celebrate. 🙂

freesthomas profile image
freesthomas in reply to nomoreheels

Hi nomoreheels... I've already bought myself a pair of Skechers trainers, as a treat, in the hope they will be comfy for me to do some walking and gentle exercising 😊 .... I hope the post has helped others. Always nice to give back to people who have been so kind and being there with wise words and advice 👍 Xx

nomoreheels profile image
nomoreheels in reply to freesthomas

Great! I've been looking for some new summer shoes, our local independant shoe shop sell some Rieker I fancied trying. I was having no luck ,my insoles didn't work with them as they're quite raised under my heel which threw the heel of the shoes out too high. They have quite a good range of Skechers, one or two that looked to have a slightly raised wedge. I understand why so many here rave about them but as before they're unfortunately too flat & unsupportive for me. Comfy though even with my orthotics. I can see they'll be good for you walking for your & exercising.

freesthomas profile image
freesthomas in reply to nomoreheels

I have needed to have orthoses made as I have issues with my left foot significantly rolling inwards - really painful. I have proper walking shoes which I can put the orthoses in. I think I will probably wear the Skechers for just getting around and light exercise. The insoles inside the Skechers are glued down which is a shame or I could put the orthoses in. Oh well, as long as they are comfy for short term walking, that'll be ok 😊. All I have to do it get enough energy and feel ok to do something now ☺️ Xx

nomoreheels profile image
nomoreheels in reply to freesthomas

You sound to have similar problems to me. Being undermedicated too long has left me with collapsed arches, custom made insoles mean with the added height at the back anything backless is out, that makes it difficult finding summer shoes that don't make your feet uncomfortable. I've fewer problems with winter shoes but they're not suitable in warmer weather with ankle grazers or crops are they?! Your Skechers will be probably nice for the house too, I think the extra comfort when not wearing shoes is important. Try a little exercise at first & build up, that way you don't pay for it & it's surprising how much you can do after a month or so.

freesthomas profile image
freesthomas in reply to nomoreheels

Yeah... I started having pain etc when I was around 14 years old, but wasn't diagnosed until I was 25! Not good!! I did have tests etc done when I was around 17 after having fluid on the knee and my hands would just randomly swell up. I played a lot of tennis at the time and put it down to sports injury in my mind. I was so naive, I had no idea that arthritis could affect people of all ages. I agree with you - winter shoes are fine but summer ones are a problem. I like to look tidy but comfort comes first. Gone are the days where I squeeze my feet into pointy or heels - I'd rather live in slippers than do that. I've got wiser over the years and if I'm not by 41 years old - there's no hope is there 😆 Xx

MargaretStirling profile image
MargaretStirling in reply to nomoreheels

I've had a flat foot for years I've had insoles make at the orthotic dept at the hospital and have had shoes made there as well there is quite a range of shoes and trainers what ever you need

nomoreheels profile image
nomoreheels in reply to MargaretStirling

Thank you for the suggestion Margaret but I've found a pair of shoes this morning after trying half the store on. Cost me though but at least they fulfil their purpose.

MargaretStirling profile image
MargaretStirling in reply to nomoreheels

I just thought I would let you know that if you are given the chance to have shoes made for you feet only don't turn it down if you have an insole provided by the hospital the insole is built into the new footwear styles of the Hotter range are included in the making.

nomoreheels profile image
nomoreheels in reply to MargaretStirling

Thank you Margaret, I appreciate it. I'll be sure to ask the Podietrist who arranged my custom orthotics next time I'm in need of new footwear. I did try some Hotter styles on but the wedges weren't supportive enough for my needs, necessary unfortunately nowadays.

MargaretStirling profile image
MargaretStirling in reply to freesthomas

Your Orthotice dept at the hospital might suggest having shoes made from them

Scottiedottie profile image
Scottiedottie

Bought 2 pairs of sandals from cotton traders recently with backs in. Best shoes I've bought in ages and can wear my orthotics in them

MargaretStirling profile image
MargaretStirling

Like you I have heard people that were on DVLA having to apply again and second time around not being successful Fortunately mine didn't change my age for one thing being over 80 the gov had been thinking that woman could be on her way out. They don't know I'm a tough cookie and I've no intention in going anywhere soon When I am moaning to myself this is sore and that is sore I just read all your stories and realise I'm not as bad as some of you I love this weather but I prefer a nice soft breeze no air I struggle to keep my airways open I quite believe it's from a certain age they put you over to PPI

freesthomas profile image
freesthomas in reply to MargaretStirling

Hello... me too - I love the warmer weather but a breeze is essential! I've just come back indoors after being outside in the garden for a few hours - wish every day could be like this. Back to work tomorrow although I have booked Friday off sona shorter week at least! Recently reduced my working days from full time to four days a week. So much better having the extra day to rest up. I've worked since I was 18 so after 23 years my body was screaming out to reduce the hours. Best decision ever 😊. Luckily, my employer is pretty good. I did have one horrible line manager but she is doing a different role now thank goodness. Karma!! I'm glad you haven't been affected by these changes and good for you - can't beat some positivity xx

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