Courtney's reality
I have received Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for around three years. While the Universal Credit application was relatively straightforward, the waiting period for the initial payment posed significant financial difficulties.
The application processes for applying for PIP was quite challenging and particularly distressing. I found the extensive information and the level of detail required in the initial forms overwhelming. It was not only complex but also had a substantial negative impact on my mental well-being and left me anxious about whether I had adequately conveyed my circumstances.
The nature of the process itself was disheartening; it fosters a sense of being judged and diminished, making me feel as though my struggles were being minimised or dismissed.
Another significant hurdle arose once the forms and assessments were completed. My PIP was rejected and I had to appeal. Being rejected made me feeI I was being called a liar, as if my integrity was in question, which contributed to the sense of helplessness and suicidal thoughts. Fortunately, I was spared from months long waits for my appeal as after submitting all my required paperwork and supporting evidence to the court, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) surprisingly chose to contact my grandmother instead of me directly. To my relief, this led to a positive outcome, and I was awarded the benefit without needing to endure the lengthy tribunal process. This unexpected turn of events was a relief, alleviating some of the stress that comes with such a daunting system.