We have successfully supported a pro bono client in their appeal to the First-Tier Tribunal of the Social Entitlement Chamber regarding their Personal Independence Payment (PIP) allowance.
Background
PIP is an essential disability benefit in the UK that was introduced to provide financial assistance to individuals who need extra support for daily living activities and/or mobility issues. As of 31 October 2024, 3.6 million claimants were entitled to PIP.
Since 2023, we've worked with University House (UH), a legal advice centre and access to justice clinic in Tower Hamlets, to guide individuals through the disability benefits appeals process.
The disability benefits appeals project was launched by UH in response to the significant increase in individuals seeking help with their disability benefits appeals following the UK government's welfare reforms. Individuals approaching UH are often vulnerable, with complex health and social needs.
These individuals initially approach UH for assistance. Clients are then referred to us for legal assistance on a pro bono basis. The project sees our lawyers undertaking disability appeal casework and providing advocacy at the First-Tier Tribunal, all under the expert supervision of UH's in-house legal experts.
The results so far demonstrate the positive impact that having legal representation can offer individuals going through the appeals process:
- UH has seen an impressive 85% overall success rate in appeals handled through the project.
- Notably, in the last year, the success rate at the First-Tier Tribunal reached 98%.
Case summary
In this latest case, our client had applied for both components of PIP due to a chronic disability which they had been suffering from for several years. Despite navigating the complex application process – involving a lengthy form, multiple pieces of medical evidence, and medical assessments – their initial PIP application was declined by the DWP on the basis that they did not meet the necessary criteria. They subsequently appealed for a full hearing before the First-Tier Tribunal and then approached UH for assistance. UH referred them to our volunteer lawyers to help them through the appeal process.
Our lawyers prepared written submissions for the tribunal in advance of the appeal hearing and attended the hearing itself. Our client's appeal succeeded, and they were awarded enhanced rates for both elements of PIP. They were also awarded a backdated payment exceeding £15,000 – a significant financial relief, reflecting over two years' worth of entitlements from our client's initial application date.
Legal assistance in the PIP appeals process is not mandatory. However, volunteer lawyers are an invaluable source of support through what is otherwise an emotionally draining, complicated and stressful time. In this case, our lawyers also obtained a life-changing financial award that will significantly improve the individual's – and their family's – daily quality of life.
Hear from the client
"You made what seemed like such a scary process feel so much more manageable. The way you handled everything, from the preparation to the actual tribunal hearing, was just fantastic. Your kindness and understanding meant so much to us during this stressful time.
The outcome will make such a difference in (our) life, and our whole family feels such relief and hope now. We can't express how grateful we are for everything you've done."
Our team: Jess Thomas (Senior Pro Bono Lawyer) and Bethany McGregor (Paralegal).
