PIP mobility (overwhelming psychological distress) + 12 week trip abroad – worried about award
Hi, I’m hoping for some advice because I’m becoming quite anxious about this situation.
I currently receive both UC and PIP. I have already spoken to my UC work coach about being abroad temporarily and they have been understanding and cooperative, particularly because there are medical reasons involved and related appointments to attend while I am away.
My concern is mainly about PIP. I receive the mobility component under the descriptor that I cannot undertake a journey because it would cause overwhelming psychological distress.
I am planning a temporary trip abroad for around 12 weeks and I will be informing PIP about it properly. I will also be staying with family while I am there.
What worries me is whether the DWP could see the fact I am travelling abroad as contradicting the reason for my award.
The trip itself is not something I can do easily or comfortably. Even though it is still around two months away, I am already experiencing significant anxiety thinking about it. I will need support with travelling and at the airport, and part of the reason I am able to attempt the trip at all is because I will be staying with family rather than managing everything alone.
What makes me anxious is that the award says I struggle to undertake journeys due to overwhelming psychological distress, yet I am still attempting this trip despite the distress and support needs involved.
I do not know whether DWP looks at it as “they travelled, therefore they can manage journeys,” or whether they take into account the level of anxiety, support required, and the fact that a person can sometimes force themselves through something difficult while still meeting the descriptor.
Has anyone been in a similar position, or does anyone know how DWP generally views situations like this? Could a temporary trip abroad affect a mobility award in these circumstances?
Thanks.