DLA to PIP transfer

alexandrajj

Dear All,

I have some queries about DLA to PIP transfer that I would like some help with please.

Background info: I have been on DLA HR mobility and care for since DLA was introduced in the mid-1990s. Each award has been lengthy (but never a lifetime award). I've only had 1 face-to-face in all that time and that was when I first applied in 1995 (I think). Also I get ESA and I have had 4 reviews - none of them ever requested a face-to-face and I have sent in similar amounts of up-to-date, relevant evidence from my consultants..

I received the PIP forms and they were filled in and plenty of evidence was sent in with them - all up to date and I also said I wanted them to access my old DLA forms and evidence for the assessment (as my conditions are mostly lifelong disability). To my complete surprise, I have been called in for a face-to-face for PIP. We outlined on the form very clearly why I would need a home assessment (if any face-to-face was even needed) but it feels like that has been totally ignored despite clear evidence of a need.

My query is (1) can I request a home visit? How do I do this?
(2) can anyone suggest an explanation as to why they now need a face-to-face assessment? I sent in strong evidence so what more could a face-to-face possibly add?
(3) is there anything I need to know about a face-to-face? Do they have to give you sufficient notice? How much? Do I get travel expenses? I cannot use public transport, will they accept this?

I am extremely worried because I feel they have ignored the evidence already that I am as disabled as I say and that there are decades of evidence showing I have a lifelong disability that just isn't going to get better! By even calling me in indicates they have simply ignored the evidence.

Can anyone shed any light onto my questions please?

poppy12345

1/ Yes, you can request a home visit but you'll need a letter from your GP stating the reasons why a home assessment is needed.


2/ They should give you at least 14 days notice of the assessment. If you do receive an appointment you can't attend then you can cancel it once and re-book. Most people have face to face assessments, it's rare to have a paper based one for PIP. DLA was different to PIP.


They will pay for taxi's but you need to get permission before hand.



During the assessment they will ask you questions about how your conditions affect you, against the PIP descriptors. See links provided.

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/pip/help-with-your-claim/your-assessment/


https://www.turn2us.org.uk/Benefit-guides/Claiming-Personal-Independence-Payment/Get-ready-for-PIP-medical-assessment


You can take someone with you for support on the day but you will have to answer all those questions yourself. If you have an appointee then they will be able to answer them on your behalf.

[Deleted User]

I got 8 days notice I think but I called and asked for a different appointment as the first was 2o odd miles away they changed it no problem it should have been tomorrow but is now next Tuesday. I have also had DLA since 1998 never had a face to face for that but fully expected it for PIP.