Appeal questions

Brief background: I was receiving DLA, then PIP at the enhanced rate for daily living due to significant mental health problems. Following an award review and assessment I received zero points (despite my condition having worsened). After an MR request they awarded me 6 points but obviously this still means nothing financially. I have sent in my SSC1 with further evidence by recorded delivery which the Tribunal service received on 21st Feb.

My questions are
1) should I have expected to receive an acknowledgement from the TS by now/how long should I wait before chasing this up?

2) I have read that the DWP sometimes change their minds at this stage and ring the claimant to discuss whether they want to take this new offer and withdraw the appeal. I am desperately hoping that this will happen for me to avoid going through the tribunal process (I honestly don't know if I can handle it) BUT I find phone calls very difficult and only answer the phone if it's a number I know and someone I know well. So what I'm wondering is a) do you know if it would come up as a withheld number, or from a particular town/city? and b) if they didn't get hold of me, do you know if they would leave a message or write to me instead?

I'm worried that if they couldn't speak to me in person and get a decision there and then that would be my chance gone and they would just carry on with the appeals process.

Thanks in advance.

Many thanks Gordon.

I received the letter on Thursday and now have what feels like another battle on my hands as they have stated my appeal was only received by them on the 05/03 i.e. late which gives the DWP the right to raise an objection.

I immediately got on the phone to the TS and gave them the Special Delivery tracking number which confirms it was actually received on 21/02.

Unfortunately as it's a central number, they can't action anything and have to refer it on to the regional office dealing with my appeal. So on Friday I put it all in an email to the Birmingham TS so at least it's all in writing. I've had an automated 'we will endeavour to respond within 10 working days' reply.


Very frustrating and unnecessary additional stress for me but thought important to share my experience to encourage everyone to do as you advise and make sure forms are sent Special Delivery and to keep a record of the tracking number. I resented paying the £7.30 it cost me at the time, but am very glad I did!

I made an appeal and within 3 weeks i got a text to say they had decided in my favour......I had been given standard rate of both and was requesting enhanced on daily liviing...was happy with mobility bit. If your medical evidence is good they may do the same