Appealing PIP decision - what do I need to ask for?

Rybeast

I’ve not got any complaints about the process, but the decision. I’ve shown my doctor, and neither of us believe it is a good reflection or understanding of the evidence that has been sent in. I scored 8 points on the mobility, but they paid little attention to the repetitive and reliability of my ability to move. I explained numerous times that moving will cause me pain and discomfort but there is no reference to this at all.

Muttleythefrog

Firstly you'll need to ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration of the decision. The DWP will have another decision maker look at your submission and the evidence to reach a new decision - usually the same... I think less than a fifth of decisions are changed at this stage.

Then if you're unsatisfied you can appeal to independent tribunal where chances are higher of a changed award.

There is some usually somewhat small risk that you get a reduced award (or no award) from pursuing MR or appeal and anyone advising you should state that.

Crucial is arguing evidentially for the descriptors you feel are the relevant ones for the activities. It sounds like you have a sympathetic doctor... they could be helpful if prepared to commit written opinion in relation to the activities if they have not already done so.

There is a wealth of advice and documentation out there and indeed here... but if you want a place to start with templates...
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/pip/appeals/mandatory-reconsideration/

You might also wish to seek advice from the likes of CAB... but if planning to I'd do it sooner rather than later given the standard month to make reconsideration request. They can, like some brilliant posters here, go into technical application of the descriptors in relation to things like reliable mobilisation.

Oh and if you had an assessment... make sure you request from DWP a copy of the report. The PA4 consultation report... if you haven't already received it. Chances are the DWP decision maker relied on such a report if it exists and thus it's important to have when challenging the decision.