After you send your form, you will usually be asked to have an assessment. It is carried out by a health professional, such as a nurse, paramedic or physiotherapist, who works for a company on behalf of the DWP. They write a report, and a DWP decision maker uses it to decide your claim.
Some people do not need an assessment, because the paperwork already makes their needs clear.
Types of assessment
- Phone assessment
- Video call assessment
- Face to face assessment, at an assessment centre or sometimes at home
Your letter will tell you which type you have. If the type offered is hard for you, for example because of anxiety or hearing loss, ask for a different type or for reasonable adjustments.
How to prepare
- Re-read your copy of the PIP form, so the details are fresh in your mind.
- Write notes about each activity, including your bad days and what happens after you do things. You can use your notes during the assessment.
- Have your list of medicines ready, with doses.
- Arrange for someone to be with you, if you can.
- Ask for the assessment to be recorded, if you want that. Ask as soon as you get the letter.
- Plan your journey for a face to face assessment. You can claim back travel costs. If getting there would be very hard, ask for a home visit and explain why.
On the day
- Be honest and specific. Describe how things are on most days, not a good day.
- Explain the effort and after-effects, such as pain, fatigue and how long it takes you to recover.
- Take breaks if you need them, and say if you are in pain.
- Do not push yourself to do physical tests that would hurt. Say if something would cause pain.
- Check you have covered everything before the end. It is fine to say, "Can I add something?"
After the assessment
The assessor sends their report to the DWP. A decision maker then looks at all the evidence and decides your claim. This can take a few weeks.
When you get your decision, you can ask for a copy of the assessment report. If it does not match what you said, that can help if you decide to challenge the decision.
Common questions
Can I take someone with me to my PIP assessment?
Yes. You can have someone with you, such as a friend, family member or carer. For phone or video assessments, they can join the call. They can help you remember things and add information.
Can I record my PIP assessment?
Yes, you can ask for your assessment to be recorded. Ask in advance, as soon as you get your appointment letter, and follow the instructions in the letter.
Can I get a copy of the assessment report?
Yes. You can ask the DWP for a copy of the assessment report. It is very useful if you want to challenge a decision.
Sources we used
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