In a letter to Tom Pursglove M.P., Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, Andrew Rosindell has expressed his concern over the process in which Personal Independence Payment (P.I.P.) is decided and assigned, particularly in regard to those seeking it over a mental health diagnosis.
Andrew believes that the paperwork required to apply for P.I.P. is biased towards those who suffer with a physical disability, as opposed to a mental health condition. He points out that the points-based system means that those with mental disorders are disadvantaged, and will likely score low, as their issues are largely in a mental capacity, as opposed to physical.
He also raised the issue of the Tribunal process, which can be an incredibly daunting and frightening prospect for someone with mental health issues. He argues that the process of explaining how your mental health conditions affect your daily life to a number of unknown officials is likely to be a dehumanising and detrimental experience.
It is concluded by calling for the application for P.I.P. to be re-visited with a modern eye, and special consideration for those who suffer with mental health conditions, instead of principally physical conditions. He argues that the humiliation of re-living past experiences which are often harrowing, and having the burden of proof placed on one who is a mental health patient, is not a tolerant nor a humane process of authentication.
Andrew's letter highlights the challenges that people with mental health conditions face when applying for PIP. The points-based system is clearly not fit for purpose, and the Tribunal process is far too daunting and frightening for many people. It is clear that there needs to be a radical overhaul of the way that P.I.P. is assessed and awarded, in order to ensure that people with mental health conditions are not discriminated against.
