Hello Gordon,

We were looking today and we couldn't find anything on Speech to Text Communication but I thought this was an acceptable form of alternative communication but we need to be able to provide examples or evidence that DWP or Tribunal will accept this. I understand that BSL interpretators are no longer being allowed at tribunals. I requested a loop system and speech to text communication for tribunal but if we get there and there's no working loop and no speech to text operator, what should we do? I requested a notetaker for assessment and was refused but I think that's because I should have explained clearer that I needed the questions in front of me in writing and that I couldn't hear them.

JRW wrote: Hello Gordon,

We were looking today and we couldn't find anything on Speech to Text Communication but I thought this was an acceptable form of alternative communication but we need to be able to provide examples or evidence that DWP or Tribunal will accept this. I understand that BSL interpretators are no longer being allowed at tribunals. I requested a loop system and speech to text communication for tribunal but if we get there and there's no working loop and no speech to text operator, what should we do? I requested a notetaker for assessment and was refused but I think that's because I should have explained clearer that I needed the questions in front of me in writing and that I couldn't hear them.

If you have explained your requirements sufficiently then I would expect the Tribunal Service to provide a suitable venue.

When you have a date, you/someone can call the Clerk of the Court to confirm the arrangements, if they are not sufficient then you should request an adjournment until the issues can be addressed. Their failing to do this would raise issues of Natural Justice in your being able to have a fair hearing.

Gordon

Hello Gordon,

Would you happen to know what disabilities are covered by Engagement - it is not possible for me to engage because I don't realise people are talking to me unless they touch me. Even when my husband talks to me or tries to tell me something, I struggle unless I can see what he wants to tell me, i.e. if it's something in the paper or if it's a choice between two things or if that cashier is free now. Anyway tribunal is next week now. I have sent further papers to Tribunal, including my adviser's submission and nothing further has been issued from DWP.

Will the panel members ask me if I'm still taking antidepressents as my Dr and I agreed I was better without them but my adviser has noted it in the submission? It's really difficult getting a Drs appointment at the moment.

JRW wrote: Hello Gordon,

Would you happen to know what disabilities are covered by Engagement - it is not possible for me to engage because I don't realise people are talking to me unless they touch me. Even when my husband talks to me or tries to tell me something, I struggle unless I can see what he wants to tell me, i.e. if it's something in the paper or if it's a choice between two things or if that cashier is free now. Anyway tribunal is next week now. I have sent further papers to Tribunal, including my adviser's submission and nothing further has been issued from DWP.

Will the panel members ask me if I'm still taking antidepressents as my Dr and I agreed I was better without them but my adviser has noted it in the submission? It's really difficult getting a Drs appointment at the moment.

There is nothing specific in the legislation or the DWP guidance, however, descriptor (d) refers to psychological distress and substantial risk of harm, both of which would suggest a requirement for mental health issues.

The Tribunal is considering your health as it was at the time of the Decision being appealed, so if you were taking antidepressants at the time they will include them, but that doesn't stop you mentioning that you have now stopped them and why.

Gordon

All over - shocked and relieved, standard points on Daily Living and Standard points on Mobility. I owe a massive lot of thanks to those who have supported me through this. Have been given four years.

JRW wrote: All over - shocked and relieved, standard points on Daily Living and Standard points on Mobility. I owe a massive lot of thanks to those who have supported me through this. Have been given four years.

Great News JRW !!!

Thanks for letting us know and for your kind comments regarding all at B&W !!

bro58