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MDUK report on Benefit System
This was launched yesterday… many of us are aware of the struggles some have negotiating the benefit system. The issue of losing Motabity cars after losing PIP entitlement does not seem to have gone away, we just don’t hear about it as much since the 8 weeks period and the support payment was introduced but when you think PIP appeal waiting times are up to 72 weeks and counting… the impact will be considerable for those whose initial assessment is wrong.
My views are based on talking to people who have claimed disability benefits and the insight I get from volunteering with Citizens Advice. I could go on but it might raise my blood pressure. I welcome this report and those produced by other charities. I just hope that together they can bring about a fairer system.
A learning experience is one of those things that say, “You know that thing you just did? Don’t do that.” - Douglas Adams
Reply To: MDUK report on Benefit SystemI completely agree. A fairer system, and a more compassionate system is long overdue. Sadly, I am not convinced anything will change. Too many reports, and advice and enquiries by various bodies show what is needed. Promises are made and then broken. Sorry if that sounds bitter. Rant over.
Mike
So many love songs, so little love.
Reply To: MDUK report on Benefit SystemI’ve got my first assessment on Tuesday. I feel in two minds about it; I don’t entirely expect to be entitled to anything, but at the same time, I keep hearing that the system isn’t very good, and that people do have to appeal etc. I do feel kind of weird that they jumped straight to a home visit. Is that normal for them to do? There’s no reason I couldn’t have attended an assessment centre.
Reply To: MDUK report on Benefit SystemHi Jono
It is important to point out that not every assessment leads to an inaccurate report. I have also heard good experiences. Two friends of mine, one with MD one with MS had very positive experiences of the HCA (healthcare assessment).
I wouldn’t worry too much about the fact that a home assessment has been proposed – it is quite heartening to know actually as they can be difficult to get. Seeing you in your own home can provide a better picture of how you manage daily, what equipment you use for example? If there have been any modifications or adaptions made etc. I’m sure you have heard this before but think about how you find things on your worst day when the HCP (healthcare professional) asks you things- this does not come naturally to many of us. Also, don’t hold back on giving them a factsheet about your particular condition.
If there’s anything you want to run through before Tuesday then feel free to post on here or call the MDUK helpline.
Let us know how it goes.
A learning experience is one of those things that say, “You know that thing you just did? Don’t do that.” - Douglas Adams
Reply To: MDUK report on Benefit SystemHey. Had the assessment today. I was surprised with the assessor, he was really nice, and I thought he’d be far more cynical. Obviously won’t know the result for a few weeks, but if it’s not what I’m after, or it’s wrong, then it’ll only be off by a bit.
I had to feel sorry for the guy though, my mum’s four dogs were going crazy, and he told me that he’d had to put his dog down yesterday…
Reply To: MDUK report on Benefit SystemHad two home assessments in a week a couple of years ago.
The worry was needless and the assessors seeing all the
adaptations, gadgets and restrictions worked perfectly.After a quick look at the level access shower and electric
profiling bed with ventilator and seeing 34 safety grab
rails one of them cut the visit short and said I did
not have anything to worry about. Heard in the post about
ten days later that everything was still fine.It is a worrying time, but there are many many success
stories."Even if you are not paranoid, it does not mean they are not out to get you!".
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