I'm not looking forward to being switched from DLA to PIP which is supposed to be so between here and April next year
I hope not to offend but the assessors do not understand FBS and how much harm it can do, primarily because it is considered to be a lazy illness, quote DWP's own investigations at the behest of IDS in 2010. What many forget including sufferers is there is a basic premise for PIP and ESA.
ESA is only concerned with is there a possibility the applicant (sufferer) is able to make some sort of contribution to the workforce, the process does not take into account the difficulty FBS can cause, it totally ignores the fact that all sufferers suffer differently. There are some apparently, who do not suffer as badly as others and they could in theory be in the workplace. Nor does the system allow for the inevitable consequence of needing to take time out of the workplace, that being in reality there are not too many employers who would be prepared to let an employee have the necessary recovery time as and when needed.
PIP is only concerned with whether the sufferer can carry out basic tasks in the home environment or not as the case may be. or in an outdoor environment whether the sufferer is able to function independently. If the applicant genuinely cannot perform those tasks then they would be entitled to PIP. FBS being the variable and non predictable condition it is poses many issues for the system. The system must allow for the variability of the condition and the consequences of the impact it poses. It is however a fact that a sufferer who cannot perform those tasks for at least 16 hours a week should get PIP albeit at the lower level.
That premise is based on the inevitability that the sufferer would then require assistance and therefore has care needs as defined in the regulations for PIP. I am aware of fellow sufferers, not on this forum despite my suggesting they do, are not in receipt of higher level PIP because although it is recognised they are impaired for part of a week, and require care to get through those periods, they do not have sufficient care requirement for the higher level. I am also aware of one fellow sufferer who is in receipt of top rate DLA care and mobility as he is so severely affected, indeed it is very rare to see the poor guy outside, he only goes out with lots of help from a very good friend who has taken on the role of his carer. A friend indeed in so many ways!!
For the record I was supposed to be switched from Incapacity Benefit to ESA in August 2013, the forms were filled in and I'm still waiting for that to happen. I add that as I understand from one or two who have appealed a decision on PIP that it is not uncommon to be waiting for months.
For those who may be wondering why I am receipt of some benefits, I suffer from multiple issues, FBS is just one. Good luck to those who are appealing and those who are applying.
Regards all.
Pete.