PIP "educated" so years later equally capable

Hi Alex, I'm in a similar situ. I have Narcolepsy and Cataplexy. very severe and happens daily. I almost drowned in the bath years ago and had a wet room adaptation. Your appeal almost mirrors mine. I was also scored 2 points for being able to use a microwave (although the descriptors say 'cook and prepare simple meal from FRESH ingredients'. Having been only 3 points off getting a daily living award, those extra 2 points would have helped enormously. The adaptation didnt seem to maatter in the DM assessment in all honesty, despite it being years ago and done for a lifetime condition that has no cure!! I am awaiting a tribunal date and wish you the best of luck. Like you, they make a point of saying I am 'university educated' ; as though that somehow makes physical/cognitive disabilities easier to manage? Best of luck. Best wishes, Cat

In addition to my earlier message Alex, I forgot to mention, that even having a brain aneurysm and two subsequent strokes, they said my memory was good and I wasnt anxious (having made a point of saying I went through formal education and completed college and uni degree). Their argument in my case, is that I have not been referred to a 'memory clinic' (as if the NHS can afford this!) I barely had any follow up after my two strokes (apparently because secondary to aneurysm) so how you are supposed to find evidence of cognitive difficulties, I really do not know. I can only advise that you ask someone who knows you, write a statement on your behalf to submit to tribunal. Best of luck. Cat

haha fair point Gordon. However, the vegetables still need to be washed and sliced/peeled with sharp knives etc. This can be problematic for a person whose consciousness is impaired due to Epilepsy, Narcolepsy or other medical reason.
Moreover, the fact is that one must still handle hot food, even with a microwave. So many reasons for being unable to use a conventional oven and/or hob, are still applicable with microwaves. (In my opinion and having sustained injuries from both types of cooking)