There’s a lot about PIP/DLA that people don’t know. To claim for these benefits is not made easy. the forms are huge and very difficult to fill in.
Biggest misconception is that a diagnosis is needed. As you point out.
its not.
Its the help and assistance needed that counts.
A diagnosis may help, but its not dependant on one.
It’s all about how the form is filled in and most people may never have faced a form like this before. It’s always best to try to get help from one of the many agencies that will help fill in the form.
And nobody from the DWP will tell you what you could claim for. You have to find that out for your self.
As you say, you were unaware of what you could claim .this is very common. Because nobody gives you the information.
It’s a shocking system designed to put people off claiming .
PIP is being migrated over to the Scottish disability benifit.
My own experience of this is that the advisors in the Scottish system are so much easier to deal with.and the claim process is much less stressful. I hope this continues. People should always claim for what they think they might be entitled to,and not be put off by the process.
the old DLA system was awful for me to go through. My first renewal after I tried doing forms myself. Ignorantly thinking DWP have all this previous information on their system so I really only filled in regarding the minor care changes for my son as he was older. I was so wrong, went from HRC and LRM to being awarded nothing. Appealed it and won the appeal and was awarded MRC and LRM which I was more than happy with as he was more able as he got older.
The Scottish Welfare system I am still awaiting to hear about our latest renewal however it didn't involve a massive, daunting form to fill out again. They only asked about any changes and not having to go through everything from the beginning again. I've also had to deal with them on behalf of my mum, attended an appointment with her where they provide someone to fill out the form for you based on what you tell them. It really is a much more respectful and dignified experience with them.