A young woman has been left feeling "extremely defeated and hopeless" after her vital disability benefits were stopped, despite receiving further medical diagnoses for debilitating conditions.
'Scored Zero on Everything' in PIP Reassessment
The 20-year-old university student, who has autism, ADHD, major depressive disorder (MDD), and anxiety, was first awarded the minimum daily living rate of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in 2023. She revealed she initially scored zero points but secured the award after sending a detailed mandatory reconsideration letter to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Her physical health subsequently declined, leading to new diagnoses of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), and migraines. After informing the DWP of this change in circumstances and undergoing a telephone assessment she believed went well, she received devastating news.
Late Letter and Tight Deadline for Appeal
A letter dated 10 December 2025 informed her that her PIP had been terminated because she had once again scored zero points in every assessment domain. Due to the Christmas period, Bank Holidays, and a recent change of address, the correspondence did not arrive until January 2026, leaving her with just a week to request a mandatory reconsideration.
"I sent in a change of circumstances form telling them this whilst stating that my previous circumstances and diagnoses still very much apply," the woman explained in an online post seeking advice. "I got a letter saying they’ve terminated my PIP as I scored 0 on everything again."
Community Outrage and Shared Experiences
The case has sparked anger and sympathy online, with many criticising the PIP assessment process. One respondent said, "This really makes my blood boil. I am so sorry they're putting you through this. It's absolutely horrific being treated this way."
Another shared a similar experience: "I had my mobility completely taken away at review despite previously winning at tribunal and my condition actually deteriorating since. I sympathise."
The student, who requires extensive university accommodations due to her health, plans to call the DWP immediately to request the mandatory reconsideration and a copy of her assessment report. She expressed frustration that the decision gave "zero reasoning" for the points awarded, beyond the final score.
