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Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

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  • Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

    Hi,

    I hope someone here can help me. I am a 53 year-old female from Bradford in West Yorkshire.

    I originally had an appointment for my PIP assessment on 8 June 2015, but thanks to the Royal Mail, I did not receive the letter. I received a letter from the DWP yesterday saying that I did not attend, so I called them straight away and explained what happened. They told me just to complete the accompanying form, saying that I did not receive the original letter. I posted this right after I spoke to the DWP.

    I am petrified of this assessment. I've been researching it online, and I'm reading all kinds of horror stories.

    I suffer from multiple conditions. I first went on DLA because I have bipolar disorder that was first diagnosed in 2008. I had one suicide attempt due to a phone conversation with an extremely rude woman at the TV Licencing agency. I rely on my DLA and ESA to basically survive, and that's really hard. I've been in the Support Group since then.

    In addition to BPD, I now suffer from these conditions:

    • brittle asthma -- required two inhalers
    • bronchiectasis
    • rheumatoid arthritis
    • severe osteoarthritis in multiple joints, especially in my knees, hands, wrists, shoulders, back, hips
    • scoliosis
    • severe pelvic shearing from multiple falls
    • polymyalgia rheumatica
    • require hearing aids
    • motility disorder of my GI tract that has to be controlled with loperamide or else I have chronic diarrhoea
    • severe anxiety
    • angina
    • gout
    • high blood pressure
    • high pulse rates
    • sleep apnea
    • high cholesterol
    • GERD
    • carpel tunnel syndrome (bilateral, operated on, but getting symptoms again. Have already had a steroid injection for this)
    • incontinence issues but controlled by avoiding certain drinks
    • Dercum's disease


    I can drive, but it is extremely painful, and I find getting into and out of my car is extremely difficult. I have to literally glue my arms to my side to avoid moving my arms to try to lessen the pain. I also can take public transport, but I need the assistance of the taxi driver or conductor to get in and out. My sleep is very poor due to both the extensive pain I have and when I am manic with my rapid cycling BPD. This is controlled by several medications, otherwise, I would be fully-blown manic. My finances are also in taters because I was unable to monitor my incomings and outgoings while manic or depressed.

    I'm also not working, having been made redundant at my last job. While there, the company provided me with an occupational therapist for my BPD and made arrangements for parking my car in a space very near my office's rear door.

    I find it extremely difficult to dress because I cannot lift my arms due to severe pain in my shoulders and deltoid muscles. When I lay down to go to sleep, they feel as though someone is hitting them with a hammer, the pain is that bad. Any bras are met with horrible pain. As a result, dressing takes forever, or if I know I don't have to be at any hospital or doctor appointments, I will sleep in my clothes.

    All of this brings me to tears on a daily basis. My grip has gotten poor, and I find myself dropping things. I used to design jewellery, but because of my grip, I no longer do this because I keep dropping things. My rheumatologist tells me that I should expect total knee replacements on both knees because they are in that bad of shape.

    My bedroom and bathroom are upstairs, so I climb the stairs one foot at a time. I've already had toilet accidents during a stomach bug because I couldn't make it upstairs in time or walk from the bedroom to the toilet.

    Using the toilet is tricky because I do not have any aids in place. Because the toilet is right next to the door, I use the door frame to set myself down and lift myself up. Showering and bathing is also difficult. If bathing, I have to roll myself around in order to get up, so my head is practically sitting on the bottom of the bathtub. I have a chair set outside the tub so I have something to grip, including for getting in and out of the tub for a shower.

    As a result, I only take a shower or bath if I know I HAVE to out to an appointment so I don't look like a right tramp.

    I've been reading all kinds of horror stories about Atos, how they have cameras all around, double-sided mirrors. how the exam is performed.

    I don't know what to expect, and to be honest, I am severely stressed, anxious, and sick to my stomach, and I don't even have the appointment yet. I hear that the HP tells you to get undressed. Is this true? This sends me to new heights of severe anxiety as I was molested and abused by an ex as well as two co-workers (this when I was younger). And what about eye contact? Do you need to bring all of your medications with you? Mine take up a large Lloyd's bag. I take 26 tablets every single day, including Methotrexate once a week.

    I'm a terrible mess. Can any of you help me? Please?

    Many thanks,

    Lee
    Last edited by leeappleyard61; 21st June 2015, 18:55:PM.
    Tags: None

  • #2
    Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

    Oh hun I'm sorry you feel like this!

    Do you have someone who can accompany you to the assessment?? From what you say it would be beneficial to have someone with you. I would also suggest taping it (so you have a record of what was said/asked).

    It might be easier for you to take a set of notes with you ... outlining the points you have made here, that way you wouldn't get flustered when faced with the questions in the assessment!

    Please try not to worry too much - there ARE horror stories around, but surely there have to be 'good' ones too??

    I'm sure you will get lots of help and advice from the knowledgeable Beagles xx
    Debt is like any other trap, easy enough to get into, but hard enough to get out of.

    It doesn't matter where your journey begins, so long as you begin it...

    recte agens confido

    ~~~~~

    Any advice I provide is given without liability, if you are unsure please seek professional legal guidance.

    I can be emailed if you need my help loading pictures/documents to your thread. My email address is Kati@legalbeagles.info
    But please include a link to your thread so I know who you are.

    Specialist advice can be sought via our sister site JustBeagle

    Comment


    • #3
      Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

      At 155 pages this is a long read :sorry: but it might help you understand what the assessment actually entails PIP Assessment Guide
      Citizens Advice have a useful guide to how the claim is assessed here - https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/be...m-is-assessed/
      and THIS LINK explains the points system xx
      Debt is like any other trap, easy enough to get into, but hard enough to get out of.

      It doesn't matter where your journey begins, so long as you begin it...

      recte agens confido

      ~~~~~

      Any advice I provide is given without liability, if you are unsure please seek professional legal guidance.

      I can be emailed if you need my help loading pictures/documents to your thread. My email address is Kati@legalbeagles.info
      But please include a link to your thread so I know who you are.

      Specialist advice can be sought via our sister site JustBeagle

      Comment


      • #4
        Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

        Hi Kati,

        Thanks for your reply. Unforunately, I don't have anyone I can take, and the only way I could record the assessment is with my smartphone which I understand isn't allowed. I know there are those mini recorders, but I'm not sure if I could afford one as money is extremely tight.

        As I mentioned, I've read several horror stories, but this one set me into hysterics:

        http://www.able2uk.com/news/disabili...sssesment.html

        What I will do is copy my post and keep that to use. I have that many medical conditions, that I sometimes don't even remember them. I'm not sure what I said in my original PIP application. Things have changed since then which was only about a month ago.

        It takes me forever to get dressed since I have very limited mobility in my arms, back, and hips. I'm also very self-conscious, and I don't want someone ogling me. I'm just soooo petrified that I can't seem to settle down, and I don't even have the appointment yet,

        I need all the help and support I can get from you guys. xxx

        Comment


        • #5
          Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

          You'll get all the support you need here!! I've asked some people I know elsewhere for input ... hopefully I'll be able to put your mind at rest soon xx
          Debt is like any other trap, easy enough to get into, but hard enough to get out of.

          It doesn't matter where your journey begins, so long as you begin it...

          recte agens confido

          ~~~~~

          Any advice I provide is given without liability, if you are unsure please seek professional legal guidance.

          I can be emailed if you need my help loading pictures/documents to your thread. My email address is Kati@legalbeagles.info
          But please include a link to your thread so I know who you are.

          Specialist advice can be sought via our sister site JustBeagle

          Comment


          • #6
            Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

            Hi Kati,

            Here are the parts that are causing me to meltdown:

            HPs may note how claimants stand and mobilise to any examination couch and observe the ease with which they get on and off the couch. How does the claimant remove their clothes or shoes?
            Informal observations should be recorded in the report, for example: "I observed the claimant... and they appeared to have no difficulty with..."; "I saw the claimant lean heavily on a walking stick to cover...

            2.6.30. The HP should never disturb underwear; never ask the claimant to remove their underwear; and never carry out intimate examinations (breast, rectal or genital examinations).
            2.6.31. Some examinations – for example, of the lower limbs – are best
            carried out with the claimant reclining on an examination couch. ..
            the distance to the consulting room".

            I can't even lie down on a couch with a pillow under my knees...

            MELTDOWN....PANIC.....

            - - - Updated - - -

            I called Atos yesterday and point blank asked them about the undressing bit. The guy I spoke with said no, but I don't believe them as far as I can throw them. Atos has a horrible reputation in these parts.

            - - - Updated - - -

            And if I don't comply, there goes my claim down the pan....

            Comment


            • #7
              Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

              It might be an idea to tell them that (even if it's just by letter) before they start?? Have you been for counselling? Could you get a supporting letter from your GP (eg.)?
              Debt is like any other trap, easy enough to get into, but hard enough to get out of.

              It doesn't matter where your journey begins, so long as you begin it...

              recte agens confido

              ~~~~~

              Any advice I provide is given without liability, if you are unsure please seek professional legal guidance.

              I can be emailed if you need my help loading pictures/documents to your thread. My email address is Kati@legalbeagles.info
              But please include a link to your thread so I know who you are.

              Specialist advice can be sought via our sister site JustBeagle

              Comment


              • #8
                Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

                I've been told of some Facebook groups where you might get advice ...
                so far:
                https://www.facebook.com/groups/DPAC...c_location=ufi - Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC)
                https://www.facebook.com/groups/Uniteasonedisableduk/ - Disabled UK-Time to Unite
                Debt is like any other trap, easy enough to get into, but hard enough to get out of.

                It doesn't matter where your journey begins, so long as you begin it...

                recte agens confido

                ~~~~~

                Any advice I provide is given without liability, if you are unsure please seek professional legal guidance.

                I can be emailed if you need my help loading pictures/documents to your thread. My email address is Kati@legalbeagles.info
                But please include a link to your thread so I know who you are.

                Specialist advice can be sought via our sister site JustBeagle

                Comment


                • #9
                  Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

                  It's not something that I like to talk about because it sends me into pure panic and tears....serious anxiety attacks. Should I wait until I receive the appointment letter to contact Atos or do I send a letter to the DWP first? I'm sure I could talk with my GP.

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

                    I did have counselling. The first time, I had to wait for like eight weeks before I saw someone. The next time, it really didn't help. Neither time helped really. Maybe it's worth asking my consultant psychiatrist?

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

                      Totally understandable ...

                      If I was you, I'd be getting the GP to write a letter that you can take to an assessment

                      - - - Updated - - -

                      Originally posted by leeappleyard61 View Post
                      Maybe it's worth asking my consultant psychiatrist?
                      could they write you a supporting letter??
                      Debt is like any other trap, easy enough to get into, but hard enough to get out of.

                      It doesn't matter where your journey begins, so long as you begin it...

                      recte agens confido

                      ~~~~~

                      Any advice I provide is given without liability, if you are unsure please seek professional legal guidance.

                      I can be emailed if you need my help loading pictures/documents to your thread. My email address is Kati@legalbeagles.info
                      But please include a link to your thread so I know who you are.

                      Specialist advice can be sought via our sister site JustBeagle

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

                        Do you know if it will be a 'home visit' assessment or do you have to go there?? No worries if you don't know yet, just trying to get ahead of the game

                        - - - Updated - - -

                        There's this too - https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/Gl...and-points.pdf xx
                        Debt is like any other trap, easy enough to get into, but hard enough to get out of.

                        It doesn't matter where your journey begins, so long as you begin it...

                        recte agens confido

                        ~~~~~

                        Any advice I provide is given without liability, if you are unsure please seek professional legal guidance.

                        I can be emailed if you need my help loading pictures/documents to your thread. My email address is Kati@legalbeagles.info
                        But please include a link to your thread so I know who you are.

                        Specialist advice can be sought via our sister site JustBeagle

                        Comment


                        • #13
                          Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

                          I think so. I see her on Monday, and I might be able to get in to see my GP on Tuesday when he's on. Even neither of them know about this.

                          Comment


                          • #14
                            Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

                            I've just now put in Joining requests to both of these. xx

                            Comment


                            • #15
                              Re: Waiting for Atos PIP Assessment / Scared to Death / Don't know what to expect

                              I believe it will be Atos as the DWP told me that during my phone call. They didn't know what centre, but one of them is actually only a couple of miles from me. I don't think I could get a home visit bit I'm not sure.

                              I've done the points thing yesterday, and I might be able to get the enhanced level on both, but it also might be borderline on the care because I live alone and I sometimes have to get someone in to help me, hence why I wear simple clothing most of the time and keep them on for prolonged periods of time. Same goes with washing my hair. I generally leave that for a few weeks unless I have an appointment, then I have to plot out how much time it will take me to get ready or I do everything the night before so I don't have a bigger rush.

                              Comment

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