Benefits Reform’ -PIP: If you claim PIP (or don’t!) how... - NRAS

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Benefits Reform’ -PIP

Bookworm55 profile image
125 Replies

If you claim PIP (or don’t!) how do people here think the changes in PIP will affect them?

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Bookworm55 profile image
Bookworm55
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125 Replies
AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone

I expect it will depend if any qualified assessors are appointed. ..& what their brief is.

It does look as if new applicants will need more clinical evidence doesn’t it?

But I doubt anything will happen overnight.

Bookworm55 profile image
Bookworm55 in reply toAgedCrone

There just seems to be a lot in the media about how terrible the cuts will be for disabled people (even before the actual details were released). The claimants interviewed all seemed to be clearly eligible for PIP payments- amputees, those with CP etc yet they all seemed convinced this was going to affect them.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toBookworm55

I think a lot in the press is written by people who just read “the rules” & have no idea how the systems work in practice.

Sadly people with congenital conditions like Downs Syndrome seem to suffer by being treated as if they will”Get better” Hopefully that will be addressed by using people qualified to understand what could improve & what is with a person for life…& will necessitate particular support…not necessarily financial….which is what seems to hit the headlines.

Bookworm55 profile image
Bookworm55 in reply toAgedCrone

I think it was said yesterday that people with lifelong conditions that are very unlikely to improve will not now need to be re-assessed every 3 years or whatever. That has to be good for them - and money saving for the tax payer.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toBookworm55

Yes but if lifelong disabled people do take the initiative & get a job….they are docked money from their disability allowance if they earn over a small sum. Many people with life long both physical & Mental disabilities do make huge efforts to work, whereas those who have a chance to get better may not do that if it means losing unearned money….& having to work. Surely that is the group that needs dealing with?

hatshepsut profile image
hatshepsut in reply toAgedCrone

pip is not affected by working, it can be claimed whether working or not . Its purpose is to pay for extra expenses of disability. So it is notcounted as income, and is not taxed.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply tohatshepsut

You missed my point….I was trying to point out the difference between people who have a lifelong condition they were born with that has no possible chance of getting any better ever, like Down’s Syndrome & those who develop a condition that with available treatment can bring about recovery to the point where that the person does not need extra support any longer. …..so those people would no longer receive PIP. There is presumably something in the pipeline to set this up. ….Benefits can’t just continue when the condition they were awarded for no longer exists.

CagneysMum profile image
CagneysMum in reply toAgedCrone

I understand your point because I fell into this category.

When initially diagnosed with RA 6 years ago it affected all of my joints including my jaw. I was continually in pain, not able to do much for myself and only able to be mobile with use of a wheelchair. Suddenly needed to buy disability aids and pay for taxis to hospital because I was physically unable to drive. So I successfully claimed PIP. After 12 months my condition had started to improve, and after 2 years on methotrexate and then biologics I felt PIP was no longer applicable so stopped claiming. It was a lifeline when I needed it though.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toCagneysMum

Good for you, but I hazard a guess not many people would be so honest,& that there are people still claiming PIP when medication has helped them to get back to being able to cope.

From what we read now, how Benefits have escalated recently that is almost certainly the case.I do hope you are still coping OK.

CagneysMum profile image
CagneysMum in reply toAgedCrone

I’m good thanks and hope you are too. Currently packing for a long awaited trip starting tomorrow to Australia and New Zealand 😃

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toCagneysMum

Oh I envy you…….

I have family there..but even if I won the Lottery & could get off the flight for a week at every transit stop & stay in a 5* hotel I still couldn’t face the journey now. But I am lucky enough to have visited DownUnder many times….so I have my memories!

Have a wonderful time!

CagneysMum profile image
CagneysMum in reply toAgedCrone

Thank you . It’s our first time and we’re so lucky to have a month there on 2 back to back cruises. Not looking forward to the journey though … our longest yet.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toCagneysMum

Sit back & relax ….sleep if you can & keep well hydrated. One thing that makes Long Haul flying uncomfortable is dehydration!,

Polo22 profile image
Polo22 in reply tohatshepsut

I worked as CPN with another CPN who had MS, she was awarded high rate DLA both care and mobility. She was determined to work and set about paying herself for specialist training in an effort to make herself indispensable. She was bullied out of her position due to very poor support for her needs and management not supporting her with reasonable adjustments. She showed me her wage slip once to ask if I thought it was right. She paid an enormous amount of tax , almost double the amount of mine. Why , because she said she was told she got DLA. I told her she needed to get advice and have it checked, they were counting it as income. It never was sorted, she would have been better of resigning but she wanted to work .

cyberbarn profile image
cyberbarn in reply toAgedCrone

You are talking about a different benefit, the work related benefits, either the old ESA or the health part of Universal Credit. That is totally separate from PIP. People with PIP can work full time if they can, or cannot work at all, it has no bearing on their PIP payments. I believe the OP is talking about PIP, not work related benefits. So apologies, but you have just been an example of what you said above, "I think a lot in the press is written by people who just read “the rules” & have no idea how the systems work in practice."

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply tocyberbarn

Thankfully I have never personally been involved with needing to claim Benefits. I don’t know what they are all called. ..but all Benefits whatever they are called come out of the same pot….the taxes the British public pay.So it surely should mean the distribution of any Benefit is fair…so like Cagney,’s Mum, you cease claiming if you don’t feel you qualify any more …but there seems to be no check on that for PIP. …..except the conscience of the person claiming.

But If you have a life long incurable disease/condition from birth you are checked …& money is deducted from your main Benefit if you work & earn a tiny bit over what is allowed…that is surely unfair…..& should be addressed ? I think that is what those arguing about downing some Benefits are complaining about.

cyberbarn profile image
cyberbarn in reply toAgedCrone

Not only have I been involved in benefit claims, I also help others claim benefits and have been involved in several government consultations.

First, people on PIP are reviewed, and people on PIP are obliged to inform the DWP if their condition changes. If you don't inform them of changes and you are over paid, you have to pay that money back. So there is a check.

The press like to make out that there are a load of scroungers getting PIP when they have got better, but the system doesn't allow for that. There are checks.

PIP is not means tested what someone earns has no effect on PIP, no money is taken away.

Working benefits, Universal Credit, is means tested means that means for every £1 over the threshold they deduct 55p I think it is, so it has a sort of taper. PIP is not included in the calculation for UC, so you don't lose PIP that way either.

I hope that makes sense? Having spent many years helping families apply for PIP and other benefits for their disabled children, I always try to explain how things really are, rather than what is said in the press.

Nuthatch profile image
Nuthatch in reply toAgedCrone

PIP claims involve a lengthy questionnaire and an assessment by a health professional and awards can be reviewed by DWP at any time. Maybe have a look at gov.uk for the actual rules.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toNuthatch

I am far too old to be interested i looking up a benefit that I was too old for 20 years ago. . But it does seem a bit strange to award quite large sums of money to wealthy people doesn’t it…especially as claimants have apparently increased at higher rates recently..Surely it would be be better to set an income limit ?

.

Nuthatch profile image
Nuthatch in reply toAgedCrone

No. If you’re not interested in trying to understand the issues we have nothing more to say to each other.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toNuthatch

I’m not particularly interested because no matter how disabled I became I would not qualify because I’m over 66 -I think the age is now…..but should you qualify by your disability at 67….you don’t qualify by the rules….it seems ridiculous…that has been allowed to remain a rule . It should surely be on your condition not a number on a sheet of paper ?

Medical61 profile image
Medical61 in reply toAgedCrone

That would only apply to means tested benefits which PIP isn’t.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toMedical61

But when you think of it, a pensioner on an income just above the personal income tax level could contributing to a benefit for somebody getting X times that.It hardly seems fair does it?

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toMedical61

No …You cannot apply for PIP once you have reached State Pension Retirement age.

If you needed to apply for a Benefit it would have to be Attendance Allowance & that is much less attractive than PIP.

Rusticgarden profile image
Rusticgarden in reply toBookworm55

I've never been reassessed in 8 years, I have Rheumatoid,sjogrens

MJSlide1958 profile image
MJSlide1958 in reply toBookworm55

But will they consider RA is a lifelong condition? Manageable, yes. Curable?? It is worrying!

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toMJSlide1958

They will MJSLIDE I'm sure ,it's the Anxiety they have caused ,unfortunately if it goes through in may for next year, Have a look at the points system

You get it on benefits and work

Pip self test

Those effected who do not get 4 points in an activity,

I.e

2 points or 3 points

It's not good

You can see in the points scoring

Who it will effect

MJSlide1958 profile image
MJSlide1958 in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

Noted and thanks very much.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toMJSlide1958

ATM it isn’t even considered it at all if you happen to be 67 the day you apply! Think about that!

MJSlide1958 profile image
MJSlide1958 in reply toAgedCrone

so unfair!

Stills profile image
Stills in reply toBookworm55

I heard that too

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toBookworm55

But and this is the problem if an lower limb amputee has a prosthetic leg then how would they claim as its not clear how they are clearly eligible as they can walk and work aright not as a scaffolder perhaps, but Douglas Bader flew spitfires with no legs! And one disabled person was doing the interviewing on the BBC ! sorry I can't remember her name but some disabilities can be adjusted for in the workplace. The Council and Civil Service department that I worked for had rules that they were obliged to employ disabled people on an equal basis. It really wasn't an issue and it shouldn't be. I'm hoping the changes will help people into worthwhile positions and give them a better life. But not at the expense of much sicker people. I just don't like labels and am not disabled even with RA, CKD, etc perhaps they should look at the structure of giving companies tax breaks to encourage more employers to make workplace adjustments to enable people into work.

HappykindaGal profile image
HappykindaGal in reply tomedway-lady

Tax breaks would be very helpful to encourage businesses I think. We actively encourage people with chronic illness to work with us and funnily enough, they have less time off than people with no issues. In fact it’s rare that they have any time off sick at all. Compare that to an employee who’s only been with us for five months and has been off with Covid, trapped nerve, mother in law falling over, daughter in a car crash, flu and is off again with something we can’t get to the bottom of. She’s on very thin ice!

We also support people claiming Access to Work and they’re really clamping down on rates. Where it used to be £25 an hour, now it’s coming out at £14 which is ridiculous. We charge £40 an hour so it’s a lot to make up for people. They’re basing it on having an employee which is madness when most people claiming ATW generally require around 40 hours a month and are unlikely to want to directly employ someone and the costs and faff that entails.

The problem with any government and civil service is that they’re completely out of touch and have little understanding of modern working practices.

Rant over!

MJSlide1958 profile image
MJSlide1958 in reply toHappykindaGal

You are so right! People who have life long illnesses make much more effort to stay in work and not take silly excuse time off! My daughter will crawl into work for 6am start and make sure she does with RA and medications in her. Without meds she would not be able to leave the house.

HappykindaGal profile image
HappykindaGal in reply toMJSlide1958

It's extraordinary isn't it. I have a lady with Crohns and it's bad. She's been with me for 7 years and had 4 days off with a broken wrist. In 7 years. Sometimes the pain she's in is extraordinary but she says, it's not going to go away because I'm sitting on the sofa and I'm better occupied. Warrior!

MJSlide1958 profile image
MJSlide1958 in reply toHappykindaGal

So very sad, but Congrats to her! If you could only know what my daughter has been through since the age of 17 yrs in middle of her A levels. She fell ill with RA badly could not walk or move. When started on MTX and steroids, she finished her A levels did well too. And then went on to do her degree. Now on Biologic too. Has had two operations on her ovaries and another in the very near future. Psoriasis now because of stress. She does not take time off sick, just the certs for her Operations. Even through lockdown she could not wait to get back to work. She is still working full time. Her start time is 6am 2 days a week and later starts the rest, but gets home approx 10:30pm. She has to work 40 hrs per month to keep her job. She is now 33 and has a long term partner. All they want is to buy a their home, get married and have a baby. But with the Ovarian issue and also meds for RA. She cries all the time, all the way to work. I feel dead inside! I wish I could take it all away from her. All I can do is be there and support her.

HappykindaGal profile image
HappykindaGal in reply toMJSlide1958

Oh my! That's so difficult for her and so hard for you to watch when, as you say, you can only be there for her. But knowing that must be a huge support for your daughter. To know that people have your back is so important I think. That's so sad she cries on the way to work.

I guess in some ways work is her escape if she loves it. Kudos to her for persevering. I hope her dreams all come true 🥰🥰🥰

MJSlide1958 profile image
MJSlide1958 in reply toHappykindaGal

Thank you for your thoughtful and kind words. And apologies for such a late reply. Sorting medicals all today whilst daughter at work. Best wishes😊

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toMJSlide1958

Gosh that’s so hard, she sounds truly awesome though and you must be proud of her. I hope that she knows how much you love her and care. At the end of the day whilst we can’t feel another’s pain we support with love and kindness, understanding and compassion which might just make that little bit of difference and the world a better place. X

MJSlide1958 profile image
MJSlide1958 in reply tomedway-lady

Oh lovely, what a beautiful message. Thank you so much, I could not have written it better! Wow, expressed so well. Many thanks

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toHappykindaGal

Rant away and I totally agree, except as a retired Revenues Manger for Collection of the Council’s Debt we all understood but political masters made the rules and they’re elected. One of the worst things is, in my day we didn’t just type info in but looked and used common sense now it’s the old computer says “no” We used to hint how the person had omitted stuff or left out things that would help them, now the internet has stopped most face to face context and the world is a harder place. I worked with RA and a young family it often wasn’t easy but I remember getting up tired, going to bed tired and being tired in between. And helping people who actually you couldn’t say “join the club, mate” too.

Odd isn’t it ? or it’s not ! that people who want to work overcome sometimes very difficult health issues just do it but more able people aren’t really bothered and have no sense of social responsibility either to work colleagues or their employer. I really hope you sort her out. Xx

Blackberrywine profile image
Blackberrywine in reply toBookworm55

I wouldn't believe much written in the press. They are pretty loose with the truth. Scaremongering sells papers and riles people up. The usual result of this is often more 'benefits scrounger' programs on TV, and more hate from a random person they've interviewed. I suspect the waters are being tested to see what the public opinion is.

Just to add...it's a pretty sick thing to try and implement. Particularly since there has been a huge rise in those entitled in PIP since 2019. No one apparently much interested in this significant rise. Added to that the closing down of jobs and businesses. Bit grim really.

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady

Its too soon yet to assess the impact in reality. But my guess and hope is a good few whose claims are similar in tone like those done by companies will be weeded out. The points system changing is a good idea as it's too complicated but easy to cheat. I hope it will help people into work who can work and improve the lives of those who cannot work. From what I've read the benefits bill will be impossible to meet if things continue as they are but I do think it must be more transparent and Assessors qualified to look objectively with compassion and fairness to claims. It seems to me to be wrong that employers can appear to pay less to a disabled person who is claiming PIP to supplement their earned income. Thats not right and since Covid the amount of young people with mental health issues must be addressed to help them and society move forward. The whole system needs a complete overhaul but where are all these jobs people can get as around here their are few vacancies advertised although a lot of building going on. But do all young people have a work ethic now ? do some as children of claimants manage on benefits as have few expectations in life. The system has long since been tinkered with on a regular basis and each time its got more complex. Personally I think it's down to the get rich quick politics of the 70/80's that has generated a few members of society that thinks benefits are a right without thinking of social responsibility. We need to change access to work and speed up claims for those in need but maintain a sympathetic face to face method of assessment as it was in the old days when I did it. No more phone assessments its go in to office or they come out to help and documents must be provided and if necessary access to GP records authorised. It probably never be used but might stop the self diagnosis element of claimants. I don't know thats just my thoughts. We'll have to wait and see when the changes are implemented and challenged through the appeals procedure.

Bookworm55 profile image
Bookworm55 in reply tomedway-lady

Good points, especially about employers paying less to PIP claimants and face to face assessments. There was a comment piece in the paper today about abuse of the Motability scheme - apparently 1 in 5 new cars on the road now are obtained via the scheme. It’s obviously vital for many disabled people but widespread abuse of the system is awful. Main car dealership’s love it of course as it’s helping to keep them afloat.

Stills profile image
Stills in reply tomedway-lady

Great point about the younger generation. Their expectations have changed, society has changed and the world has changed. My Mum is constantly saying that she snd her peers lived through the war as children with fear, rationing, austerity and Dad away fighting yet they all went to school, found jobs and lived useful lives without the opportunities and benefits available today. There’s a lot to be said for the stiff upper lip approach although I know many will disagree.

MJSlide1958 profile image
MJSlide1958 in reply toStills

This is so........very true. I am so blessed I grew up in the 1960s and retired from work in 2018. The laziness now is unbelieveable!

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toStills

I’m of your .Mum’s generation & she is right…my Father went off to fight in that war & never came back. But back then widowed mothers brought up their children alone, made sure they went to school & got peanuts of Widow’s pensions. But we survived & got jobs & never dreamed of applying for Benefits, whether we had a disability or not we worked.

I’m not saying deserved Benefits are a bad thing…but being able to receive more in Benefits than for a day’s work should be stopped.

After all, those of us paying tax work for our self respect, not to pay Benefits to those who work the system..

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toStills

No I totally agree, my mum used to say “what don’t kill you makes you stronger” she drove a train during the war, and had little sympathy. It was vital to get someone else to get a splitter out! She was tiny too, yet never complained just “ got on with it”. lol xxx

rmros profile image
rmros

My concern is that they've pulled this £5bn figure out of nowhere. How can they know what the savings will be unless it's based on targets rather than need? And Starmer does seem very target-driven.

It won't directly affect me as I've never applied for PIP but I don't want people with genuine need losing out just to help reach savings targets. I think we all know one or two people who take the p*** a bit, but I'm sure it's a very small minority.

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply tormros

My guess is they have a matrix which isolates out claims under mental health and points awarded, same for RA, CKD, Limb loss, MS, ME, Cancer, Liver disease, Parkinsons, Elipepsy etc. etc so know exactly who they want off benefits and have a good idea of who it will be thus a projected saving. It won't be rocket science to target dubious claims and more power to them to prosecute fraudulent ones. Those fraudulent people are robbing us not the state. The state has no money its the public purse. I know someone I really hope gets caught..... And to be fair it is a small minority but it's stopping it getting worse and an element of a generation that doesn't need to work as benefits means they can stay in bed all day. That sounds hard but I'm sure we all know of someone like that. I never applied for PIP and didn't need it but had RA so one life impacting illness and was working to amongst other things to determine benefits based on a claim for it. Ironic really but the Council were great employers so I was lucky as should everybody expect an employer to be in the interests of fairness and equality. x I'm off my soapbox now lol and fingers crossed they get it right and not just another fudge up. And what are they going to do to get people in temporary accommodation/homeless/sofa surfing in work as often with no fixed abode they fall through the cracks and end up without benefits and no jobs. Fingers crossed it's the start of major changes that help people.

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply tomedway-lady

I wonder if as well as having suitably qualified assessors….the first move would be somebody,s clinical specialist would have to propose a Benefit, was needed…. not just have the person fill in a form with their personal ideas?

hatshepsut profile image
hatshepsut in reply toAgedCrone

Sorry, but nobody just fills in a form with a selfdiagnosis. Who is going to employ the "clinical specialist" ? It's hard enough to see even a GP nowadays. You are so lucky that you have never needed to claim benefits. You obviously resent that you were too old to apply for Pip, and that colours your whole attitude towards benefits, plus your total ignorance of the process

Ignorance can be remedied, but you have already stated that you don't want to know the details of allowances that you can't claim.

So please keep your halftruths and fantasies to yourself. For many people these are their lifelines

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply tohatshepsut

Whoever spends time looking at details of something they are not thinking of applying for? I assure you there is no resentment,….we all have a right to say what we think, and . although I have been seriously ill with various illnesses …..in fact until I started reading this site when diagnosed with RA I had never heard of PIP. But surely you know of people just too old under the present rules who missed out because of age? That does need addressing. The clinical specialist I was thinking of would of course be provided by neutral health authorities

We are all entitled to our opinions & it is obvious you don’t like mine & that is your right but don’t accuse me of being resentful, when you have no idea of my life.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply tormros

You are correct rmros,also disabled claimants are going to lose pip with the points scored change ,These include claimants with severe restrictions etc ,

You lose, no more points scored ,if you use adaptions ,aids ,need help assistance to wash hair or body below the waist,help in and out of a bath or shower etc,or supervision prompting ,

And assistance for dressing lower body etc ,and every other activity 3 points or less scored is getting taking away from the disabled

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

This has not been made clear, so what source are you using to spout these things. Please be careful we don’t know yet much more than changes are coming and isn’t that a good thing if it weeds out those who are abusing the system and supports people who want to work. It’s not about a political stance but common sense.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply tomedway-lady

Please respect others ,it has been made clear with Liz kendals statement as you know it's facts .you need 4 points in a oner ,please respect others

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

Please read the governments statement on the direct gov website which I did, it’s not clear how and I’ve not been disrespectful at all. But you have picked out one item in a series of changes. It’s misleading as some may get more. Please stop and by the way I’ve screen shot your post in case it changes again.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply tomedway-lady

It has and again she said it it in her statement to parliament points under 4 will be abolished, all leading charities and welfare rights have also got it on their website ,we agree to disagree ,best we move on ,so post does not get hijacked

P.s out of courtesy, I will watch the statement again ,and if not correct I will withdraw it ,benefits and work, etc are saying the same,I will watch statement again tomorrow

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

No you’re wrong she’s not abolished anything but saying that the Government are making qualification different and yes harder in some cases by looking at how disability impacts through changing how points are awarded. I’m not getting into a debate with you and remember you from previous posts. Please read things as some will get more help isn’t that a good thing ? and as for your post about below the waist qualification points it just doesn’t make sense

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply tomedway-lady

You responded to my reply not me ,besides the Below the waist washing and bathing and dressing etc getting help you currently get 2 points scored ,this is being abolished, no more 2 or 3 points awarded and if you currently get this you lose them ,new criteria you now need higher threshold 4 points or above its clear and facts

Spanelmad profile image
Spanelmad in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

No one has seen the new questions and how there scored! As it still needs to pass in. the house of commons your repeating the media scare mongering.Until November it won't effect anyone according to the green paper.And then it will be If your up for review.

So really try to forget about it until the envelope hits your doorstep.

And so your aware I claim pip and esa

Stills profile image
Stills in reply toSpanelmad

Well put

AgedCrone profile image
AgedCrone in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

This is the latest statement

Stricter tests for personal independence payments (Pips)

PIP is paid to people in England and Wales who have difficulty completing everyday tasks or getting around as a result of a long-term physical or mental health condition.

It is not means tested and is available to people who are working.

The payments will go up in line with inflation this year.

But the eligibility criteria will be tightened up from November 2026, potentially resulting in reduced payments for many.

It will become harder to qualify for the daily living component of Pip, which starts at £72.65 a week. There will be no change to the mobility component.

There will also be a review of the Pip assessment process.

Wobbly1 profile image
Wobbly1 in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

My understanding from watching the announcement is the same as yours. I’m sorry that you’re being treated in such a rude way by certain members of this group. Unfortunately, you’re not the first they’ve attacked and I’m sure you won’t be their last victim. They appear not to understand that it’s a support group.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toWobbly1

Thank you wobbly ,yourself and a few did understand myself thanks very much,

The thing was I was replying too bookworm ,thanks again

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA

It's not good if you have lower limbs issues etc washing bathing cooking dressing etc and other issues, if you score the 2 points across the board ,they are taking this off you a labour government, there are lots though with right advice May qualify for the 4 points you need

With the majority of time rule or unable to do an activity once a day only as that qualify s

As the time comes nearer ,professional advisers may help there ,

They are taking away the 2 points and no more adding the 2 points now ,there are lots who use aids and get help will lose out ,

P.s

From a good source may be true fingers crossed

Starmer and co came out with this for the

OBR so there's no downgrading if case they may not go through with it or change it if this is true

P.s id imagine it would effect a lot of RA claimants if it goes ahead

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

I don’t understand what your writing?

RAat13 profile image
RAat13 in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

You're not making any sense, I'm also confused about how you'd know how the points system is changing?!And what are you talking about with now only 2 points instead of 4...

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toRAat13

It is wot has been announced and still to go through ,it's clear read it up all the charities now put it up on their websites, benefits and work, disability rights ,welfare rights ,it's the opposite you wrote about the points scoring ,have a look at the points system to understand ,proposed is now you must score 4 points in 1 activity question , you will no longer get it if your award is made up of 2 and 3 points added together ,The pip self test Benefits and work

You can see who it will effect on the points scoring

Flinda profile image
Flinda in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

Please don't try to convince people who remain adamant that they are right.

I remember (back in February 2020) these same people arguing that a COVID lock down could never happen and called those who said it was required idiots - until it happened.

Some people are extremely stuck in an inflexible way of thinking and others are more open to the possibilities. That's just life, along with having a chronic disease like RA!

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toFlinda

Thank you

Madmusiclover profile image
Madmusiclover

I don’t think it will unless I get classed as not needing review in 10 years.

TheBoys profile image
TheBoys

I got standards pip last year - with RA, Osteoarthritis and Arrythmia ( ectopic beats)

I’m a bit confused but would expect to lose my PiP eventually which also probably means I lose my bus pass and the blue badge.

I really rely on the PiP especially in winter with heating.

RAat13 profile image
RAat13 in reply toTheBoys

Not necessarily, buss passes and blue badges can be claimed without PIP.

TheBoys profile image
TheBoys in reply toRAat13

Surely that’s incredibly difficult ?

RAat13 profile image
RAat13 in reply toTheBoys

No not really, I did my last badge without including my PIP. Reason being, my PIP had less than a year left before renewal and if applying with PIP it gives the time frame of award. So I did it without, I just sent my letter with my conditions listed and filled out the forms x

TheBoys profile image
TheBoys in reply toRAat13

Thanks that’s useful.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toTheBoys

Mobility is not effected with this announcement boys ,only the care elements

Stills profile image
Stills in reply toTheBoys

Claimed both for my 87 year old mum who claims NO benefits at all, without any problem at all although she can’t actually get in a bus unless I’m there to help

TheBoys profile image
TheBoys in reply toStills

Hi

Tnx for that. I just checked my award from last time so I should be ok still on mobility for PiP

Angjoplin profile image
Angjoplin

I'm on standard living. I didn't score over 2 points in anything. I know that the questions and point scoring will probably change, but I'm still worried. Without my blue badge I couldn't work. I can't get out of my car in a normal parking space.

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toAngjoplin

Blue badge is not qualified by benefits. I have one but no benefits. Benefits come via DHSS and Blue badge the local authority so it will make no difference at all.

TheBoys profile image
TheBoys in reply tomedway-lady

Hi

How did you get the badge ? Was it very difficult to obtain?

Angjoplin profile image
Angjoplin in reply toTheBoys

I had a letter from the hospital physio. So I didn't have too much trouble.

TheBoys profile image
TheBoys in reply toAngjoplin

Hi

Thanks that’s useful. The blue badge is the really useful thing for me as my ankles /knee give out.

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toTheBoys

No it’s a straightforward application to Local Authority who issue the badges. I’ve just had an email saying renewal time. Just ask for the application it can be done online.

TheBoys profile image
TheBoys in reply tomedway-lady

Hi

Many thanks for this

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toAngjoplin

Mobility is not effected ,you will be fine there

Runrig01 profile image
Runrig01 in reply toAngjoplin

I’ve been getting my blue badge for the last 9yrs, despite never claiming benefits. Simply because I’d rather avoid the stress, I have adrenal insufficiency, and don’t produce any of the stress hormone cortisol, I’ve been advised to avoid stress, so have chosen not to go down this path. I’ve never need a F2F assessment for my blue badge, it’s been awarded based on the evidence I’ve sent. So I wouldn’t worry 🤗

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toRunrig01

Same here and I put off applying as didn't want to be labeled as disabled. Then a friend told me sh'd got one as needed a new knee. So I tried and a fortnight later and £10 lightly it dropped through the letter box. Easy form too.

Runrig01 profile image
Runrig01 in reply tomedway-lady

He only issue I had was on the last renewal. I submitted it 12 weeks before it expired. Them they relied stating it was averaging 16 weeks. This happened when I had the knee injury hat no one would investigate, because gp kept insisting it was referred pain from my back due to my AS. I was in a wheelchair at that point. I tried emailing to ask if could be prioritised, but no, had to go 4 weeks without. It ended up 16 weeks to the day. They won’t let you apply any sooner than 12 weeks before expiry though

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toRunrig01

Mine isn't due for renewal until June but I got the email last week saying apply now as we are sorry but long delays so it's the same all over methinks. And computers were supposed to speed things up. Its going to be the same start date but got the same email from Kent Country Parks saying renew the parking pass as, long delays too. I wonder if Tesco processed these things would there be long delays or would they open up another till. Just a thought!

Runrig01 profile image
Runrig01 in reply tomedway-lady

😂😂 Tescos would definitely nail it. Good that you got an early warning though 👍. I need to check my local country park, as I can’t recall if I have to renew yearly, or just when the badge expires,

Angjoplin profile image
Angjoplin in reply tomedway-lady

I know my local Tesco wouldn't open up another till. Your lucky if there is one manned till by an actual person.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toAngjoplin

Hi you don't have to have benefits for blue badge you can still apply ,Only difference good difference acually

If you get standard mobility on pip .or high dla you get the blue badge Automatically and cant be refused ,if you apply and no assessment ,

No benefits need an assessment some get f2f some don't but can get refused .

Out of curiosity how did you get it the last time aplly with no pip etc or with

The daily living is imperial to the blue badge Its mobility

Rusticgarden profile image
Rusticgarden

From what I've read you must have got 4 points in any one description but until green paper out in about a week it's all hearsay.

BoneyC profile image
BoneyC

Part of the Government's problem is the rise in State Benefit age to 66/7. That opened the floodgates to more people in their 60's able to claim PIP. They should have seen that one coming!

From what I've read and heard so far, the eligibility criteria will be tightened up for new claimants and those existing claimants being re-assessed. There seems to be a lot of noise about mental health conditions and younger people claiming.

My PIP award has always been 'for the longer term' and I haven't been reassessed. I told them my condition will worsen and sure enough it has, I've had more ortho surgery and can't do what I used to be able to do.

All of this has to go through both Houses, so it will be a while yet.

Stills profile image
Stills in reply toBoneyC

Yes, there are now huge numbers of people not working and not getting pensions yet who are claiming some sort of benefit and you’re right they should have seen that coming. We both fall into that category as our jobs ended early with the start of the pandemic and we are only 62 now, we saw it coming and planned accordingly, we are not working, not claiming and not getting pension but we are living off savings which not everyone can do and future generations won’t have saved.

Edited typos

RAat13 profile image
RAat13

I think we are all getting ahead of ourselves, we're unsure how the changes are going to fully affect us and when. I understand everyone's frustration as I'm in the same boat as all of you but if we stress ourselves out it will flare us up.I used to be on DLA indefinitely because RA is incurable and unpredictable, as soon as pip came, that all changed! We need to take this in our stride and cross the bridge when it comes to it x

Welshwomanprestatyn profile image
Welshwomanprestatyn in reply toRAat13

Well I decided to apply for Attendance allowance as I got turned down for PIP a couple of years ago. I have RA I have been awarded low rate but for 2yrs only then I have to reapply. They must think I’ll be cured by then !!

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toWelshwomanprestatyn

No it’s not about any disease being cured, but things do change as having RA is not the qualification but how it impacts the person. Trouble is it’s one size fits all system but as I understand it, this is one thing that will be improved and it’ll be an automatic renewal or indefinite award so who knows in two years you might get a latter saying this is your new rate and it’s indefinite.

RAat13 profile image
RAat13 in reply toWelshwomanprestatyn

My last renewal was 3 years, got to reapply next year but that will obviously come sooner. I rely heavily on my car because getting to a bus stop, on and off the bus etc isn't an option. I'm 2016 I had everything stopped, because I could grip a piece of paper, excessive pressure on my joints causes infection, even tried going back to work in 2019, ended up in hospital with a foot and knee infection.I do think RA is massively underestimated and it must just be a bit of arthritis to them.

My last assessor tried telling me i obviously can't look after my children and made me feel like I'd have social services at my door 🙃

I am concerned about what's next but I'm not going to dwell on it, we are all used to fighting for our disease to be heard and this can not stop us ✌🏼

medway-lady profile image
medway-lady in reply toRAat13

Was he hinting that you need to think about this question again to qualify ? I dont know obviously and its just my thoughts that it might have been trying to help you.

RAat13 profile image
RAat13 in reply tomedway-lady

I agree, I think her way of questioning was to encourage me to answer the "better" way.

Gymcactus profile image
Gymcactus in reply toWelshwomanprestatyn

I applied for attendance allowance last year as have R A turned down, 75 yrs old and happy to help support others by still paying income tax on the company pension inherited from my late husband, ha ha ha.

Welshwomanprestatyn profile image
Welshwomanprestatyn in reply toGymcactus

I helped a neighbour apply for AA last year she is 82 with sight problems. I took advice on how to answer the questions from CAB and she was awarded high rate for life. So worth applying again maybe

Numptybrain profile image
Numptybrain

I’m on an ongoing award for pip, since 2017 but recently my daughter who’s my appointee is helping with changeover from income support to universal credit and it’s yet another assessment I have to go through which doesn’t help when you’re ill and have anxiety. I really struggle with the questions, it’s bad enough seeing my specialist but at least they understand my cognitive issues. It’s too much to be put through especially when you feel so ill.

Take care

Wendy xx

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toNumptybrain

Good luck ,with your change over Numtybrain Hope it goes ok for you and the transition payments if apply goes ok for you

Retirednhs profile image
Retirednhs

I don't have PIP only DLA but l know people who do and for some it would be devastating to lose it. I agree it should be monitored but there are so many illnesses that are not obvious and preclude people being aware of their problems that mean they can't work. Age should also be considered there are some youngsters who look well with no problems but are many hidden ones for them as well. I worked until l was 70 and l loved it helping others so l am very aware of hidden problems . So no to changes for that if it's a proven medical problem mental or physical and l thought youbhave to have proof to have it so l would say no change

Deaconblues profile image
Deaconblues

I was reassessed for PIP last month. The assessor must not have known what they were doing. I should have scored 16 points for daily living but was only awarded 8 (made up of 4 lots of 2 points). I haven't challenged the decision because it's too stressful and 8 points means that I still get The lower award. However, the changes made this week to the eligibility criteria means that from November next year I won't get it. Apparently I share this boat with about 1 million others. My PIP adds up to about £4000 per year. Times that by a million and that gives £4billion of the £5billion that the government says it will save every year.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toDeaconblues

Hopefully you you get wot you desevere at reassessment deacon ,and get a4 points,and get help with forms

Deaconblues profile image
Deaconblues in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

Thanks. I don't need help with the forms or understanding how to apply the descriptor guidelines to variable conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. It's the assessors who don't know what they are doing. Or they deliberately don't apply the guidelines properly. Either way, it's unacceptable and does a great disservice to disabled people.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply toDeaconblues

Fingers crossed it gets blocked ,it will effect lots of RA claimants unfortunately

Polo22 profile image
Polo22

The anxiety and distress this subject is causing is so uncalled for. Yes the system has flaws and these need remedying. It is like a broken record every government whatever colour always punches down to the most vulnerable and demonises those less able. The DWP's and HMRC's own figures show fraud for sickness and disability benefits runs at 0%. If anyone seriously believes that it is easy to access benefits and the system needs to be made harder they need to give their head a wobble. There is more money spent on fighting claimants and denying those who are genuinely entitled than would be saved. I could go on but , one thought, it isn't the people at the bottom of the pile causing the problems, it's the people at the top

Deaconblues profile image
Deaconblues

Very well said. The Government could easily raise billions by taxing a little bit more the people who have the most. Those at the "top" would hardly feel it. How can 1 million people at the other end afford to lose £4000 a year?

cyberbarn profile image
cyberbarn

Rather than rely on the press or other people, it is worth reading the Green Paper. The consultation questions are in the appendix.

gov.uk/government/consultat...

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply tocyberbarn

The government has on green paper Refused to consult on almost anything and no questions as well

Only questions that participants accept that people should lose their pip

Not even about support millions who lose their pip ,

Vital information also withheld from the green paper ,and how many will lose out they are refusing to publish ,there is more and more

The leading charities,

Disability rights

Benefits and work

Ms

Fightback4justice

have all published this and calling it a bogus green paper

I got this from an email as I donate to one of the above

Can see a court case looming

cyberbarn profile image
cyberbarn in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

"Only questions that participants accept that people should lose their pip Not even about support millions who lose their pip ,"

That's not true. The second question in the consultation is, "2. What support do you think we could provide for those who will lose their Personal Independence Payment entitlement as a result of a new additional requirement to score at least 4 points on one daily living activity?"

Also, "3. How could we improve the experience of the health and care system for people who are claiming Personal Independence Payment who would lose entitlement?"

"Only questions that participants accept that people should lose their pip"

Again not true, they are asking if they should delay access, it is not a forgone conclusion - yet!

"Delaying payment of the health element of Universal Credit 11. Should we delay access to the health element of Universal Credit within the reformed system until someone is aged 22?"

Also remember when you fill out a government consultation you don't have to answer the questions as they are set out. You can also tell them you disagree with the premise of the proposals.

Stills profile image
Stills in reply tocyberbarn

Good explanation thank you

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA

Benefits have published and their their website ow now the green paper is entirely Bogus

How many do you think will lose if 2 and 3 points stops for adding together I agree but how will millions not lose out specially RA and mental health ,id listen to disability rights and benefits and work all day long ,they work with dwp and they bring court cases and I my view would not be dishonest with their statements, everyone different though ,some would believe the governments all day long as well

cyberbarn profile image
cyberbarn in reply toOSTEOARTHRITISRA

You can use Benefits and Work's example of the new proposed PIP descriptors, and I found that my son would get more fours than he did in his last PIP assessment.

And I am very disappointed in Benefits and Work. They are really very careful about what they say, but the Green Paper is not bogus, it is a genuine Green Paper issued by the government. It might have leading questions (all government consultations do) and the government might have decided not to consult on certain things, but it is not a bogus Green Paper.

As I said above, it doesn't matter what the questions are, you can still fill out the consultation with what ever it is you think is important, you can tell them what you think they have missed, or what you think they have got wrong.

OSTEOARTHRITISRA profile image
OSTEOARTHRITISRA in reply tocyberbarn

I do agree with you cyberbarn ,Myself not just this government all governments the now I don't trust a word they all say now. I understand your veiw as well ,yet I trust benefits and work,

Hopefully some that lose out ,maybe get 4 points with good advice and if not done so have a good look at majority of time rule and unable to do a criteria once a day there ,

Medical61 profile image
Medical61

Those whose conditions have a limited impact on their ability to carry out the tasks specified in the claim form are the ones that will be impacted the most, even though they might suffer from multiple conditions that collectively impact their ability to carry out the majority of tasks. It’s the scoring of 4 points in at least one of the categories will be the biggest discriminator.

kangolk profile image
kangolk

I work with a man who has a blue badge and walks more than 20,000 steps a day walking around 4 buildings. He gets PIP he tells me that he works on his car at the weekends lying on the ground to go under the car then tells me has trouble getting up off the ground as he has sore knee's. I'm sitting at my desk all day in agony all day with Ra and Osteoarthristis.

Tourk profile image
Tourk

We've just had 14 years of anti disabled policy, supported by whst calls its self the Labour party, do I didn't expect anything to change.It clear where the "government's", priorities lay and its not for the betterment of life for the British people's. Only the top 5% benifit.

The media prints what it's told to print when it's told to print it. Any kind of truth is buried deep if there at all. Sadly that's not just to justify taking away from those with the greatest need.

Speaking as someone who's stuck in bed a lot if the time. The best I can do is prepare for a rough future with an unfortunate end.

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