PIP Variable Condition Change in Rules?

I have just noticed that in the new PIP Handbook issued by the DWP the guidance regarding variable conditions seems to have changed considerably for the worse!

My understanding is that the original intent for variable conditions was that if a condition is present at any point during a 24 hour period it should be considered as being present for the whole day. This was a change from the DLA 50% rule; the 'new' PIP rule was that a condition had to be present for 50% of days, rather than 50% of the time. This is well documented in several publications from the DWP.

The PIP Handbook now states, on page 9, "The timing of the activity should be considered, and whether the claimant can carry out the activity when they need to. For example, if taking medication in the morning (such as painkillers) allows the individual to carry out activities reliably when they need to throughout the day, although they would be unable to carry out the activity for part of the day (before they take the painkillers), the individual can still complete the activity reliably when required and therefore should receive the appropriate descriptor."

The new guidance would seem to suggest that if you can complete an activity at some point of the day then you will be considered able to complete it for the whole day. The polar opposite of what was originally stated and that which the original legislation intended.

I believe that this is a significant change and would be grateful for any clarification that the Moderators can give.

Gordon, the handbook is at the link Here

Gordon, further to my last; I'm waiting for a date for my appeal to be heard by a First Tier Tribunal, during which I'll raise this issue. I'll let you know their thoughts.