Quick answer: Mobility descriptors for pip cover planning and following journeys (anxiety, cognitive issues) and moving around (distance/speed/safety). Points depend on reliable ability and aids.

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Navigating the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) process can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to the mobility component. Many people in England and Wales struggle to understand how the descriptors work, what evidence is needed, and how to present their case clearly. Here’s a practical guide to help you approach the mobility section with confidence, avoid common mistakes, and maximise your chances of a fair award.

Understanding the Mobility Descriptors

The mobility component of PIP is split into two main areas: “Planning and following journeys” and “Moving around.” Each area has a set of descriptors, and you score points based on how your condition affects you. The total points determine whether you receive the standard or enhanced rate.

Planning and Following Journeys

This descriptor looks at your ability to plan and undertake journeys. It covers issues such as:

• Needing prompting or encouragement to leave the house due to anxiety, panic attacks, or cognitive difficulties.

• Needing someone to accompany you for safety or reassurance.

• Being unable to undertake any journey because of overwhelming psychological distress.

For example, if you experience severe anxiety and cannot travel alone, you may score points for needing accompaniment. If you cannot leave the house at all due to distress, you may qualify for the highest points in this area.

Moving Around

This descriptor focuses on your physical ability to walk:

• The distance you can walk (e.g., less than 20 metres, 20–50 metres, 50–200 metres, or more).

• The speed at which you walk.

• Whether you experience pain, fatigue, or risk of falls.

• Whether you need aids such as a walking stick, frame, or wheelchair.

It’s not just about whether you can walk, but how far, how safely, and how often you need to stop or rest. For instance, if you can walk 15 metres but then need to stop due to pain or breathlessness, you may qualify for enhanced mobility.

Gathering Strong Evidence

Evidence is the backbone of a successful PIP claim. The DWP needs to see how your condition affects you in real life, not just a diagnosis. Here are some types of evidence that can help:

• GP or consultant letters: These should explain how your condition affects your ability to plan journeys or move around. For example, a letter describing panic attacks, orientation problems, or the need for supervision.

• Physiotherapy or occupational therapy assessments: These can document the distance you can walk, the aids you use, and any adaptations you need.

• Incident logs: If you have fallen, keep a record of when and where it happened, what caused it, and the impact.

• Travel diaries: Note how often you need help, how far you can walk, and any difficulties with public transport.

The more specific your evidence, the better. For example, instead of saying “I struggle to walk,” you might say, “I can walk up to 15 metres with a stick, but then I have to stop for five minutes due to severe pain and breathlessness.”

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many people lose out on points because they don’t provide enough detail or downplay their difficulties. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Vague answers: Saying “I can walk” without specifying distance, speed, or rest breaks won’t help your case. Always quantify your difficulties.

• Downplaying safety risks: If you’ve had falls, severe breathlessness, or need supervision, make this clear. The DWP needs to understand the risks you face.

• Not explaining psychological distress: If public transport triggers panic attacks or confusion, explain why. For example, “I become disoriented and anxious on buses, which has led to me getting lost and needing help to get home.”

A Real Example

Ben applied for PIP due to a combination of physical and mental health issues. He needed someone to accompany him on unfamiliar routes because of anxiety and orientation problems, scoring 10 points for “planning and following journeys.” He could walk less than 20 metres before needing to stop, which scored 12 points for “moving around.” With a total of 22 points, Ben qualified for the enhanced mobility rate.

Ben’s success was down to clear evidence: a GP letter describing his panic attacks, a physiotherapist’s assessment of his walking distance, and a diary of incidents where he got lost or fell. He avoided vague statements and focused on specific, repeated examples.

Tips for a Strong Mobility Claim

• Be honest and specific about your difficulties. Don’t just describe a good day—include how often you have bad days or flare-ups.

• Link every point to the relevant descriptor. For example, “I need prompting to leave the house due to panic attacks (Descriptor 1b).”

• Use supporting evidence wherever possible. Attach letters, assessments, and diaries, and refer to them in your claim.

• Explain why you need help, not just that you do. For instance, “I need someone with me because I get disoriented and have previously wandered into traffic.”

Final Thoughts

The mobility component of PIP is about your real-world challenges, not just your diagnosis. Take time to gather strong evidence, describe your difficulties in detail, and avoid common pitfalls. With a clear, well-prepared claim, you can give the DWP the information it needs to make a fair decision.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information for educational purposes only. It is not legal, medical, financial or tax advice. Outcomes can vary based on your personal circumstances.