Understanding PIP applicant experiences: the experience of applicants with anxiety
This report is a qualitative research study into the experiences of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) applicants with mental health conditions and/or neurodiversity.
Documents
Details
Research background
The research was undertaken by The Social Agency (formerly Basis Social) on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It explored how the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application journey is experienced by customers who are predisposed to anxiety with the aim to deepen the Department’s understanding of what it can do to reduce anxiety for all applicants.
Contribution to the evidence base
This report provides evidence on the challenges faced by PIP applicants with mental health conditions and/or neurodiversity. It addresses how anxiety can be triggered or exacerbated as applicants navigate the PIP application and assessment process. Whilst the application process can be anxiety-inducing for anyone, people with certain health conditions including anxiety, depression, neurodevelopmental conditions and neurodiversity may be more prone to experiencing anxiety, and therefore, the impact of the PIP application process may be more pronounced. This report explores what changes could be made to improve support to these, and all, applicants.
Research value
The Department will use these findings, alongside insights from wider research, to inform the development and delivery of the Department’s policy initiatives and the Health Transformation Programme.