PIP and work

Hi Holly

They are not allowed to withhold points because you have a job.

I know you're trying to be as prepared as you can for next week, which is admirable—but unfortunately, much of it is just unknown. Two people who appear to be in the same position can have very different experiences.

You cannot control what the assessor will be like or what they will ask you. The length of appointments has varied from 30 minutes to 150 minutes.

You can't control what an assessor might ask you. One thing that will probably happen is that you will be thrown a curveball at one time. That's a question you're just not expecting and doesn't even seem to be relevant to PIP. My friend was asked what her last job title was. Another friend was asked about her secondary education. If you get a question like that - don't panic. Tell the assessor you need a drink of water and think about it.

Don't be afraid to say "I don't know," or "I don't remember" to any question. Better to say that, than be pushed into saying something that is entirely inaccurate. For instance, they often try and push people into saying how long it takes to walk a certain distance. Just keep repeating you don't know (unless you do). Most people who guess - get it wrong and can damage their case with their answer.

Focus on the deterioration in your health that has affected your ability to work.

A member may well comment on their experience - but bear in mind however much you try and prepare for this - you are likely to wish afterwards you had said something different - nearly everyone does. You can only try and do your best.
Hope it goes well for you.

BIS