Unsuitable assessment centre locations

The Independent Assessment Services (IAS) make appointments for claimants to go to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments. They are based in an office in the Midlands, not locally.

They don’t always appreciate the travelling distances between places down here. They just look on a map, and see that Plymouth is not that far from Exeter or Cornwall!

In their defence, they are trying to get the claimants to an assessment as soon as possible. But what they actually doing is causing greater anxiety.

Example 1:

One of my clients was sent a letter asking him to attend an assessment for his PIP application in Exeter, despite him living in Plymouth. He is 41 years’ of age and has never left Plymouth.

Due to his disabilities he cannot make telephone calls, but thankfully went to his neighbour for help. She is one of my clients, and telephoned me to ask for help.

I advised him not to go, and I telephoned the IAS and informed them of the problem.

He was then given a telephone assessment which his neighbour helped him with. He was awarded PIP. and all was well.

Example 2:

Another client in Plymouth was referred to me by her GP, as she was so worried about her.

This client has severe anxiety and had been sent a letter asking her to attend a PIP assessment in St. Austell!

She had not left Plymouth for many years due to her anxiety, but she was so worried that if she did not go she would be penalised.

She went to the assessment with her brother, but cannot remember any of the assessment. As she just wanted to go straight home, she just answered ‘yes’ or ‘no’, and has not scored any points.

I am now working with her and have just lodged her Appeal.

If you have been offered an appointment at an assessment centre in an unsuitable location, please call and explain your situation .

If you need help or support please call me at One Stop Advocacy on 07464 106 903.