Epilepsy and PIP

Here is The Brain Charity’s specific guidance on applying for PIP if you have epilepsy. You should read the guide available from Disability Rights UK too.

The PIP form assesses 10 areas of care needs (Daily Living Activities) and 2 areas of mobility. Based on your answers, you will be awarded a number of points. The amount of points you score determines the payment you receive. Please see the Disability Rights UK PIP guide for breakdowns and payment scales.

When applying for PIP it is important not to apply with your best day in mind. You should instead consider your ability to carry out a task most of the time – in other words, does your condition affect your ability to cook, dress, and wash more than 15 days out of 30? What is the average number of days affected by your condition?

Our guidance for epilepsy and PIP is available to download here in full:

Epilepsy and PIP guidance notes
Example PIP form for epilepsy

General tips

  • Practice – don’t write straight onto the form. Use some paper to write and phrase your answers before putting them on the form
  • Photocopy the completed form before you send it off, so you remember what you wrote
  • Try to get someone to check the form over for you – preferably someone who knows you well.
  • Enclose statements from medical professionals or friends and family to support your answers. This helps the assessor understand your condition from both a medical and personal perspective.
  • Enclosing repeat prescriptions or a diary may also be beneficial.
  • When filling in each section, if you cannot complete a task reliably, do not just tick ‘yes’ – tick ‘no’ and explain the conditions and problems you encounter when trying to complete a task.