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 and her mobility and pain issues are worsening.
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 to and taken seriously by the assessor. As advocates we know how assessments are run and can guide them through the process.
An initial phone call was made to the client, so our independent advocate could introduce themselves to her. The advocate explained the assessment process and asked Amanda if she 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.
“Thank you 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 Amanda was feeling. Our advocate prompted and reminded Amanda when she forgot to mention to the assessor.
We aim to help people to have their voice heard and to feel listened to. It is important that we prepare our clients for the assessment. This helps to improve clients’ confidence at the assessment because 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 that they have forgotten.
“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.” – ICANN independent Advocate
Howick House, Howick Park Avenue, Penwortham, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 0LS
Tel: 01772 746 061
Email: admin@i-cann.org.uk
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