An online petition proposing that people with certain medical conditions should not be required to attend a health assessment for health-related benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has received an official response from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
The petition, which has received more than 26,800 signatures of support, was created by Ray Vanderahe, suggests that PIP assessments should be based “solely on evidence from medical professionals, such as a letter from a GP or consultant”.
However, the DWP response explains how assessments are necessary to ensure people claiming certain benefits are getting the right amount of support and indicated that the more relevant information provided from the start of an application, the reduced need for a Health Professional to seek this out at a consultation - in person, over the phone or by video call.
