PIP Evidence Checklist - What to Send

Strong evidence is the difference between winning and losing a PIP claim. The DWP and assessors rely heavily on medical evidence to make their decision. Here is exactly what to gather and who to ask.

Essential Evidence

1. GP Letter - Ask your GP to write a letter confirming your diagnoses, current medication, and how your conditions affect your daily functioning. Be specific about what you want them to include. Some GPs charge for letters (typically £20-50) but it is worth it. If your GP will not write a letter, request a Subject Access Request (free under GDPR) for your full medical records.

2. Consultant/Specialist Letters - Letters from your rheumatologist, psychiatrist, neurologist, cardiologist, or any other specialist carry significant weight. Ask them to describe functional impact, not just diagnosis.

3. Medication List - A full printout of your current prescriptions from your GP or pharmacy. This shows the severity of your conditions and the side effects you manage.

4. Supporting Statement - A written statement from someone who knows you well (partner, family member, carer, friend) describing what help they provide daily. This is often the most powerful evidence because it describes real daily life, not just medical facts.

Additional Evidence

• Occupational therapist reports - aids and adaptations needed
• Physiotherapist reports - exercises, limitations, mobility
• Mental health professional letters - CPN, psychologist, counsellor
• Hospital discharge summaries - if recently hospitalised
• A&E records - if attended due to your conditions
• Social worker reports - if social services involved
• Photos - visible conditions, wounds, swelling (dated)
• Diary - daily record of symptoms, difficulties, and help needed

What Makes Good Evidence?

Good evidence describes FUNCTIONAL IMPACT, not just diagnosis. "Patient has fibromyalgia" is weak. "Patient has fibromyalgia which causes chronic widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. She requires daily assistance with cooking, washing, and dressing. She cannot walk more than 30 metres without resting due to pain and fatigue" is strong.

When to Submit Evidence

Send evidence WITH your PIP2 form if possible. You can also send additional evidence after submitting the form - post it to the address on the form with your National Insurance number on every page. At tribunal, you can submit new evidence right up until the hearing.