Amanda’s Story

“Amanda self-referred to ICANN, for help with a PIP assessment, after she was told to contact us when she had help elsewhere completing her PIP form. She applied for PIP a few years ago and had not been successful. Her health conditions had worsened so her partner encouraged her to apply again. Amanda has a lot of help from her partner and children.

Amanda has a range of physical and mental health issues. Due to this, she has not worked in nearly 5 years. Amanda is currently under a range of specialists, but her mobility and pain issues are worsening.

Why advocacy support?

Amanda wanted advocacy support at her PIP assessment because she said that she was scared and that her last assessment did not go well. She also said that she would feel better in the assessment with a professional supporting her. Amanda felt that she would be listened and taken seriously by the assessor. As advocates we know how assessments are run and can guide them through the process.

How did we help

Initially, a phone call was made to the client, so the advocate could introduce themselves to her. The advocate explained the assessment process and asked the client if they had any questions.

It was important that the advocate found out about Amanda’s health conditions, her medication, how effective the medication was as well as how her health conditions impact on her daily activities and mobility. 

“Thankyou so much for everything. It was a much better experience this time with your help and support ” – Amanda

Our role in the assessment was to help reduce any stress and anxiety the client was feeling. We prompted and reminded the client when they forgot to mention to the assessor.

Our perspective

We aim to help people to be able to have their voice heard and to feel listened to. It is important that we prepare to prepare our clients for the assessment. At the assessment this helps to improve clients’ confidence as they have an advocate with them, and this helps to reduce their stress and anxiety. Clients also know that we are there to prompt and remind them of information etc that they forget.

“Being able to help and support Amanda through the assessment process and make it a more positive experience and make a difference makes my job worthwhile.” – Paula – ICANN