PIP for people with mental health condition who are caring for small children

Hi Julie

If you have used your actual email address on your profile - please go in and change it - as this can be seen anywhere on the internet. Follow the link to change it benefitsandwork.co.uk/guides-for-claimants/faq/forum

Yes, there are people who have been awarded PIP and look after young children, and I hope that someone may see your post and tell you of their experience. I don't think the age of the children makes any difference to the DWP. If someone is in a caring role (as a carer or a parent) - they will always look at how you can fulfil both roles. This can lead to an unfortunate bias - particularly around mental health issues. The problem with the DWP saying that a claimant who looks after children can automatically look after themselves is unfair when no one knows what they may or may not be doing for their children. Also, it's quite possible for a parent with mental health problems to be able to feed their kids but then have no energy or motivation to feed themselves. It doesn't mean they don't need as much support as a childless person with the same condition.

BIS