PIP Face to Face Assessment - What to Expect in 2026

From April 2026, the DWP is increasing the proportion of face-to-face PIP assessments to 30%, up significantly from the pandemic era when almost all assessments were by phone. If you've been invited to a face-to-face assessment, here's what to expect and how to prepare.

Where Does It Take Place?

Face-to-face assessments take place at assessment centres run by contracted providers (currently Capita and Atos). You'll receive a letter with the date, time, and location. If the centre is not accessible for you, or you physically cannot attend, you can request a home visit. You can also request a phone or video assessment instead, though the DWP may not always agree.

What Happens During the Assessment?

The assessment typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour. A health professional (usually a nurse, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist - rarely a doctor) will ask you questions about each of the 12 PIP activities. They will also make informal observations throughout.

The assessor may ask you to perform simple physical tasks: standing up from a chair, lifting your arms, touching your toes. You don't have to do anything that causes pain. If something hurts, say so and stop.

What Are They Looking For?

Assessors are trained to observe things beyond your answers. They may note:

• How you walked from the waiting room to the assessment room
• Whether you made eye contact and followed the conversation
• How you sat, fidgeted, or adjusted your position
• Whether your reported difficulties matched what they observed
• Your clothing, grooming, and general presentation

Can I Bring Someone With Me?

Yes, and you should. You can bring a friend, family member, carer, or support worker. They can provide additional information, prompt you if you forget something, and take notes. Some people bring a welfare rights adviser. Having a witness also helps if you need to challenge the report later.

How to Prepare

Read your PIP2 form again before the assessment so your answers are consistent. The assessor will have your form and will notice discrepancies.

Describe your worst days. Don't demonstrate what you CAN do - explain what you CANNOT do on most days.

Bring evidence. Copies of GP letters, consultant reports, medication lists, and anything else supporting your claim. Hand them to the assessor.

Take notes. Have your companion write down the questions asked and your answers. If you need to challenge the report, these notes are invaluable.

After the Assessment

The assessor writes a report and sends it to the DWP. A DWP decision maker then uses this report, your PIP2 form, and any evidence to make the final decision. This usually takes 4-8 weeks after the assessment. You can request a copy of the assessor's report - do this if you're refused, as errors in the report are common grounds for Mandatory Reconsideration.