A 20-year-old woman has reached out for advice after her Personal Independence Payments (PIP) were abruptly stopped, even after she disclosed new medical diagnoses. Initially awarded PIP in 2023 due to autism, ADHD, major depressive disorder (MDD), and anxiety, she now faces the loss of support following additional health developments.
After being diagnosed with migraines, hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), she informed the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) by submitting a change of circumstances form. Despite describing her declining physical health and ongoing mental health challenges, a subsequent assessment resulted in a zero score across all criteria, leading to termination of her payments.
The woman explained that she only received the termination letter, dated December 10, in January due to postal delays during the holiday period and a recent change of address. Reflecting on her experience on Reddit, she described feeling “extremely defeated” after the demanding mandatory reconsideration process previously left her physically drained.
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She stated: “I was awarded the minimum daily living rate in 2023 after scoring zero initially but providing a detailed reconsideration letter. Since then, with new diagnoses and worsening health, I submitted updated information and completed a phone assessment that I thought went well, yet I was told my PIP has been terminated again with no points awarded.”
As a university student who requires numerous accommodations and struggles with attendance, she worries these factors were overlooked. She plans to request a mandatory reconsideration and review the supporting assessment report immediately.
Others in the Reddit community expressed disbelief and sympathy. Comments ranged from shock at her zero score despite worsening health conditions, to anger over the perceived injustice in the PIP assessment process. One user shared their own experience of losing mobility benefits even after a successful tribunal and deteriorating condition.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about the fairness and responsiveness of PIP assessments for individuals with complex and changing health needs.