Case study 9
Trevor is 25 and lives in sheltered accommodation provided by the local council,
sharing a house with three other people one of whom, like him, is also profoundly
deaf. He likes meeting up with friends and often goes to see movies with subtitles.
His preferred method of communication is British Sign Language and many of the
people he sees regularly have learnt a few essential elements of sign language, to
help with communication. He keeps in touch with his friends by text and his phone
vibrates and flashes to alert him when he receives messages. The doorbell in his
house also has a light that goes on when someone rings it. He is able to cook for
himself, do his own shopping and manages to wash and dress without support.
Likely descriptor choices
Total points
Daily living activities = 8 (standard rate Daily Living component)
Mobility activities = 0 (no Mobility component entitlement)
Explanation
Trevor’s impairment impacts on his ability to communicate and he requires a British
Sign Language interpreter. He is able to carry out all other everyday activities
independently.
Editor note: I have a lot to say about this. First of all, it says Trevor requires a British Sign Language interpreter. The assessment doesn’t even begin to ascertain how much Trevor requires this and how this requirement can be met. Assessment is so infuriatingly half-assed.
I think the key word in that descriptor is BASIC, which would qualify you for PIP. (COMPLEX does not). How do you assess basic?
There is nothing to stop them to say pen and paper is basic communications., AFAIK.
@Saltbar thanks for this. Kind of worried they’ve included the “sheltered accom” bit, i.e. implies need to be at top end of attention.
@Saltbar thanks for this. Kind of worried they’ve included the “sheltered accom” bit, i.e. implies need to be at top end of attention.
@Saltbar i suspect there will be a significant no of appeals & tribunals due to PIPs. Could end up costing the Gov more money than saves
“can engage socially unaided” – does that mean we can get points because to go out with hearing people is a nightmare.