Advice Changes Lives: Joanne's Story
Advice Changes Lives
Each year Law Centre NI obtain the social security appeal statistics from the Appeals Service and publish these on our website. The statistics consistently demonstrate that both attending an appeal, and receiving representation, results in a higher likelihood of a positive outcome.
Law Centre NI provides advice and representation for appeals as well as providing training and support to tribunal representatives in the sector. Feedback, like that outlined below, demonstrates that the availability of good quality representation not only results in improved appeal outcomes, but it also improves wellbeing.
Joanne’s story
Because of her significant mental health difficulties “Joanne” applied for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) but her claim was turned down. She appealed the decision and attended the tribunal unrepresented. Unfortunately Joanne had a difficult experience at the tribunal and her appeal was disallowed.
Joanne then sought assistance from our colleagues in Action Mental Health who helped her to reapply for PIP. Once again, her application was refused, and Action Mental Health referred her case to Law Centre NI to ensure she received representation at the new appeal.
How we helped
The experienced Law Centre representative recognised how worried Joanne was about returning to a new tribunal and provided reassurance and support. Law Centre worked closely with Joanne and her mother to prepare for the new hearing. The representative assisted Joanne to obtain supportive medical evidence and provided written submissions in advance of hearing.
Joanne and her mother had been reluctant to return to hearing following their previous experience but received reassurance from their representative that their appeal would be before a new tribunal.
What happened?
With the support of the Law Centre representative, Joanne and her mother attended and provided oral evidence to the tribunal. On this occasion it was the evidence provided by Joanne’s mother, as her carer, which was important in communicating to the tribunal the assistance she required daily. On the basis of all of the evidence provided, the Tribunal allowed the appeal, awarding enhanced rate Daily Living and Standard Mobility for an ongoing period.
Impact:
“…I just wanted to send you an email to express mine and Joanne’ sincerest thanks for your support with her PIP appeal – You have been extremely supportive, responsive and helpful and it has made all the difference to both myself and Joanne. This successful outcome will have such a significantly positive impact on Joanne’s wellbeing and on her life. Thank you!
Contact us
If you need advice on social security issues, get in touch with our team on 028 9024 4401, Monday to Friday, 09:30-13:00.