A woman experiencing chronic pain daily has revealed her Personal Independence Payment (PIP) benefits have been abruptly withdrawn, leaving her without £600 each month. Following a recent review by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the payments ceased with immediate effect, despite her ongoing medical conditions.
Chronic Conditions and Daily Struggles Ignored in Assessment
The individual, who shared her story online, suffers from a brain injury, chronic fatigue linked to that injury, and endometriosis. She emphasised that she lives with pain every single day, which significantly impacts her daily life and ability to function normally.
In a bid for guidance, she posted on a social media forum, explaining the sudden loss of financial support. She detailed how the assessment used her ability to work minimal hours—solely possible due to managing symptoms—as evidence against her eligibility. Additionally, reviewers cited her capacity to use stairs with a handrail as an indicator she could perform tasks like getting in and out of a bath, which she disputes as misrepresenting her limitations.
Navigating the Mandatory Reconsideration Process
Determined to challenge the decision, she has formally requested a Mandatory Reconsideration, submitting extra evidence to bolster her case. This initial step is free and allows the DWP to re-examine the ruling based on new or additional information, such as updated medical reports, care plans from healthcare professionals, or financial documents.
However, responses to her query highlighted the challenges ahead. Statistics show that only about one in five decisions are overturned at this stage, making it a critical but often uphill battle. The advice stressed that providing strong, relevant evidence addressing specific PIP activity criteria is essential to improve chances of success.
Potential Tribunal Appeal Looms if Reconsideration Fails
If the Mandatory Reconsideration does not yield a favourable outcome, the next recourse is an appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal, supported by HM Courts and Tribunal Services. This tribunal stage is independent and can review cases more thoroughly, but it involves a longer, more formal process.
The woman expressed hope to avoid proceeding "all the way to a tribunal," seeking a resolution earlier to alleviate financial and emotional strain. Her situation underscores broader issues within the benefits system, where assessments may not fully capture the realities of living with chronic, invisible illnesses.
This case serves as a reminder for others in similar positions to meticulously gather and present evidence during reviews, as the system heavily relies on documented proof of disability and its daily impacts.
