KATE's PIP Queries Topic !!!

Hi Kate,

If you look on Facebook, Fightback page, there is a posting there stating that PIP is allowing a second extension in view of xmas etc.

I got a first two week extension (my daughter phoned) with no problem and she was also told that they do also allow several days after the deadline as they realise that the envelopes they are sending out second class do take a while to get back to them. So there is some leeway.

RE: PIP applicants are only allowed to re-arrange the face2face appointment once.

A long distance or very early start would be impossible for me.

Is there any negotiation about the next appointment?

Also, I would need to arrange someone to come with me and that takes time to organise - would they take that into account?

I have been successful in getting appointments rearranged.I pointed out that ATOS is breaking the law by failing to make reasonable adjustments and that they were harassing disabled people by threatening them with refusal of benefits if they did not keep impossible appointments.
What happens is that they do not look at the info you may have sent to the DWP ABOUT YOUR NEEDS RE ASSESSMENT AND NEEDING TO BE ACCOMPANIED The appointments are sent out by computer, giving you the next available appointment, theoretically within 90 minutes travelling distance, although ATOS staff when challenged had no idea where Bath or Bristol were and wondered if we would like an appointment in Cornwall!

There should be a list of venues for assessment on the ATOS website. Phone ATOS, tell them why you can only travel a short distance and that someone has to accompany you and that under the Equality Act 2010 they need to take account of your individual needs as someone with disabilities. Please say that you have contacted your MP and do so, letting them know that this system of allocating appointments is discriminatory. All of a sudden, an appointment in Bristol was given, just a few miles from where the client lived..Make a complaint to ATOS too, if they are at all rude or threatening.Good luck.

Stress of the application & new medication problems mean I just cannot focus on getting the PIP form filled (even with help).

I've asked for an extension (four days ago) - DWP have not made a decision yet. My carer who rang them mentioned that my GP is aware of all this & agreed asking for extension - she was told it's nothing to do with GP "it's our decision".

So. If the form gets there a week late..... I presume my current DLA (indefinate award) will stop. Is that correct? When would it stop?

Would the completed PIP form that gets there a week late, then be classed as a new application from the date it arrives?

Thank you so much Gordon. Your words gave me courage to persevere - I saw a different new GP & seeing me wringing my hands & apologising about needing something/anything to support my PIP, he took over & said "let me do a letter"! That meant so much to me. It may just take him a week or two before he can do it.

Thanks again Gordon. I so often feel like giving up. It is so good to have the support online like this.