Finding someone to attend medical - mental health

Hello

I am expecting to have to go to a PIP medical consultation in the next few weeks, I transferring from DLA to PIP.

I am wondering if anyone could help point me in the direction of where I might be able to find someone willing to attend a medical with me, preferably someone with experience in handling benefits claims made on mental health grounds.

I have tried the charity MIND but they are not active in my area.

I am based in Gloucester.

Many thanks

Simon

Hi Simon and welcome to the forum. On the assumption that you are also new to the site, this link should help you find your way around.

Welcome to Benefits and Work

I am afraid it is getting increasingly difficult to find help for welfare claims as so many agencies are operating with reduced funds

*You can try CAB although I don't hold out a lot of hope.

* Do you have a CPN? Some people have been accompanied to assessments by their CPN but I guess it depends on their workload.

* Is there a group or association for the condition from which you suffer? Contacting these people can sometimes be helpful.

* Try a web search for 'welfare advice' and your town/postcode

* Finally, don't under-estimate the value of a friend or relative attending with you. The assessor will want to hear about your limitations from you.

Other mods and/or members might have other suggestions.

If/when you have more questions, please reply to this message and we will do our best to help. You will find it easily if you bookmark/favourite it on your web browser now

Hi Simon

This may/may not be of some use to you……………………..Search for Independent Mental Heath Advocates (IMHAs) in your area.

Also check out RETHINK, they deal with various aspects of MH and some areas also have Advocates…………….They cannot represent you per se, however, they can speak on your behalf, having previously consulted with yourself.

It may be useful to check out the roles of advocates to see if it will be suitable for yourself…………….the main thing’s that you’ll have someone with you, in confidence, if they’re able to deliver and their diary’s free!

Good luck
P.