Rachael Field, a 56-year-old woman from Rhondda Cynon Taf diagnosed with tongue cancer, has been deemed ineligible for Personal Independence Payment (Pip) despite her severe medical condition and substantial care needs.
Field was initially diagnosed with cancer six years ago and has since battled the disease four times. Her medical treatment has included removal of her tongue and voice box, reconstruction of her windpipe using chest tissue, and the installation of a feeding tube. She experiences significant mobility limitations and requires assistance with washing, dressing, toileting, and all nutritional intake. Medical professionals have indicated she has approximately three years remaining. She ceased employment following her terminal diagnosis, placing financial strain on her family.
When Field applied for Pip in May, her claim was denied with zero points awarded across all assessed categories. Pip is a government benefit designed to help individuals with long-term illnesses and disabilities manage extra costs associated with daily living, work, and care. Eligibility determinations involve assessments where health professionals evaluate claimants on a zero to 12 scale based on everyday functioning tasks.
Field’s family reported that the assessment process experienced repeated scheduling delays. An appeal was filed several months prior, but a resolution remained pending at the time of reporting. The Department for Work and Pensions stated it required additional evidence to complete the claim and indicated it had attempted to contact Field to resolve the matter. Field’s family indicated they were in ongoing discussions with the department.
Field’s daughter and family members criticized the assessment methodology, arguing it relies too heavily on checklist-based scoring and fails to capture individuals’ genuine difficulties. A crowdfunding campaign was established with a target of raising £1,000 to enable Field to spend remaining time with family on trips within the United Kingdom.
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