Pip

Hi emmak,

I t recently had a lumpectomy and lymph nodes removed, I get both Universal Credit and PIP.

Lets start with Universal Credit, eight weeks is not unusual to wait, but there should’ve been more movement by now. If I were you, I would ring them again or go to your nearest Job Centre and ask to speak to someone about a query, then stress to this person the urgency of the matter, that you have children to feed and you have no money, lay it on thick if you have to, tell them you can’t wait any longer - also ensure that they back pay it. Normally you are paid from the date of the claim. I get UC because I only work twelve hours and am classed as on a low income.

As for PIP, first visit the www.gov.uk site which gives you all the info on PIP and if you are eligible, which you are and it will also tell you how to claim

1. You ring the number 0800 917 2222

2. Have your name, address, d.o.b, ni number, your GP’s details to hand before you call, this saves a lot of messing.

3, They will ask you for these details and then usually talk about your condition and why you are applying - call takes about twenty mins do this at a quiet moment.

4. You could then wait up to six weeks before they get back to you, this is normal, then you will get a telephone consultation going over things. After this they may tell you then if your claim has been accepted or if you will have to wait a few more weeks for them to assess it. Please be patient as they let you know when they are ready. Once again, lay it on thick if you have to, tell them everything about the cancer and how it is effecting you.

I originally got PIP because I am partially sighted, when I was diagnosed with cancer I notified them as it is a ‘change of circumstance’ and got it increased by nearly £300. Never feel guilty about asking for help or the befits you are entitled to, that’s what they are there for, everyone does it do why shouldn’t you, going through cancer is stressful enough without the worry about money - and you are entitled to both, so get them.

Also can I suggest you ring Macmillan 0808 808 0000 first and speak to them. Firstly you are entitled to a £200 Macmillan grant, which I got within a week. Also they have people who specialise in benefits, energy bills, PIP and lots of other things and can get things moving quickly. It might be beneficial to go to your nearest Macmillan centre, a list is on this site.

I do hope this helps and let me know how you get on, be strong, you are not alone.

Take care and big hugs.xxx

thank you so much for replying.

Macmillan awarded me the grant which was well needed and gratefully received. 

MacMillan have been amazing and I would recommend anyone reaching out to them.

I am messaging, via a journal with UC, but they are very slow in responding.

If they don't respond in the next couple of days I will lay it on thick.

Thank you so much for replying and for your advice x

Hi emmak, 

No worries, anytime, we are all in this together.xx