New PIP claim

Hi

i currently receive ESA [Support group]. DWP have advised me that I may qualify for DLA on top.

Should I assume that fresh claimants will almost certainly be seen by an ATOS HCP before any decision is made? If so, if I can't take going through the ATOS mill again, should I accept that there is no point applying in the first place?

Do current ESA/DLA or PIP claimants always have to face the ATOS gauntlet twice?

Thanks

A

If you are a new claimant you will have to apply for PIP not DLA and have a medical assessment. If you are in the south of England your claim will be processed by Atos but if you are in North England your claim will be processed by Capita. The only difference I am aware of is that Capita prefer to do home visits.I have little feedback on the claim process other than that it is very slow.