Last month we revealed that we had heard from three members whose PIP report carried out by Capita doesn’t give the type of qualification held by the health professional. Instead, in the box for ‘Type of professional’ it simply states ‘Health professional’.{jcomments on}
We contacted Capita about this, as it appeared to be unacceptable practice for a health professional to decline to disclose their qualification. It seems that Capita have now talked to the DWP and discovered that, for once, the DWP agrees with Benefits and Work.
A Capita spokesperson told us:
“All of Capita’s health professionals are qualified to carry out PIP assessments and undergo training according to the Department and Capita’s quality standard.
“DWP has provided guidance stating that PIP health professionals, who are made up of occupational therapists, nurses, physiotherapists, paramedics and doctors, are now required to share their specific professional background on the PIP report form.
“Capita has communicated this requirement to its employees and will continue to enforce it.”
So, if your assessor doesn’t reveal their qualification, please contact Capita and we’re sure they’ll be happy to put things right.
Thanks to those members who alerted us to this issue. Please keep us posted about any other problems.
