Before starting this section, I’d recommend reading my introductory PIP guide first, as it gives an overview of the whole PIP application process. Then, when you are ready, you can start the monumental task that is filling in the PIP form. Take a deep breath..we are going in. Let’s start with PIP section 1.
Preparing to Fill in the PIP Form
Make yourself comfortable and aim to complete the form in short sections. This is not a race and breaking it up into manageable amounts is a sanity saver. It can help to have a file or folder containing all of your child’s relevant medical documents and letters. Personally, I never throw away any letters, I file absolutely everything, as I just don’t know when I might need it. Particularly important are letters from doctors and specialists, especially if these have lists of medication and describe the difficulties your child faces with things like practical tasks, social difficulties and communication issues. A current EHCP is also useful.
Separate and copy anything that you want to include as evidence. If some documents are similar, use the most recent one. Then go over any important points with a highlighter to make sure that they stand out. Always use copies when possible, just in case anything gets lost in the post.
Section 1: An Overview
In many ways section 1 of the PIP form is the easiest. It is where we list the health conditions and disabilities that our child is experiencing. Often with Autism, there can be various comorbidities such as ADHD, OCD, Dyslexia and so on. Each of these can be listed separately on the list, along with an approximate time of diagnosis for each.
Below this section, there is an area to list medications. Make sure you list each medication accurately, along with the dosage and frequency, as well as any side effects.
The next part of the form is to list any treatments you are currently having or have planned for the future, both NHS and private. This is where it is handy to have the folder with all the information to hand, as the form requires you to input dates for each treatment. Include therapies such as speech therapy, physio and occupational therapy appointments, as well as sessions with psychologists, paedeatrics and mental health services. Try and be as thorough and as accurate as possible filling all of these sections in.
PIP Section 2
Section 2 expands on section 1 and requires details of the various professionals involved in your child’s care. It’s best to start with your GP details first, especially as they will likely be the person that will be contacted first in relation to your claim. Clearly write the address, phone number and name and repeat this information for any other professionals that you would like to include. These should be people that can give an accurate account of your child’s disabilities if asked.
…and so we come to the end of the first section. Warning, the next part gets harder, but I’m here to hold your hand! This is probably a good time to have a rest and a cup of tea before we move on to the next section…