A parent has opened up about the challenges they face living with severe bladder problems that make it almost impossible to leave their home for extended periods. These health issues have deeply impacted their independence and quality of life.
Seeking support, they applied for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), hoping to receive assistance. Despite being transparent about their struggles, the parent was stunned and disheartened to be refused benefits, receiving a zero score across all assessment areas.
In a heartfelt Reddit post titled “Scored 0 all around and mentally unable to do anything about it,” they detailed their experience: “I got my letter today after first applying in August. I expected a lower score than I truly deserve, but to score zero for everything is just so disheartening. I’ve been out of work for three years now with no return in sight.”
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They explained that their daily life is affected both mentally and physically by multiple diagnoses, all supported by medications. Their GP initially recommended applying for PIP, but the official assessor’s report included inaccuracies, claiming they could do tasks they explicitly stated they could not. More painfully, the report falsely recorded that they denied having any bladder or bowel difficulties, despite their lengthy conversations explaining daily accidents that restrict their ability to leave home.
“This is something I have kept secret from everybody because of embarrassment,” they wrote, “except my doctor, whose records confirm it. Reading the report made me feel so disregarded.”
The parent also expressed frustration at the assumption that because they have children and no social care involvement, they are deemed fully capable. They described the process as dehumanizing and emotionally draining, leaving them without the energy or hope to appeal the decision.
The post drew empathetic responses from others with similar experiences, including some facing the same outcome due to comparable conditions. One commenter highlighted the unfairness in benefits being granted for issues like anxiety while severe physical conditions like bladder problems are overlooked.
Others advised seeking help from Citizens Advice or charities experienced in handling PIP claims to lodge a mandatory reconsideration. Tips included requesting the assessor’s full report to understand the decision and submitting the reconsideration in writing. Importantly, claimants have up to 13 months to appeal with a valid reason, such as health struggles or delays in receiving support.
Another commenter encouraged the parent to take some time to rest before approaching the process with renewed strength, urging them not to give up hope.
According to official guidance, if you disagree with a benefits decision, you can ask for a mandatory reconsideration, usually within one month of the decision date, though extensions are possible for valid reasons like hospitalization or bereavement.
This story highlights the emotional toll and practical difficulties faced by those living with invisible chronic health conditions and navigating the complex benefits system.