To think the passport office are idiots?

[dawndonnaagain]

Applied for first passport for dd2. Received a letter stating that she has to have an interview. Telephoned, explained that she is autistic and doesn't speak to strangers. Got told to ring the booking office anyway and explain to them. Got through, explained, was told I could go with her, great said I, how will it help? Apparently someone she has never met knows her better than I because she'll talk if I am in the room. Nonsense. Gave up, emailed, got a standard reply so emailed again asking which bit if autistic they were unable to comprehend because I was happy to direct them to some helpful sites. Got an email back telling me to ring the number to book an interview...

Oh FGS. YANBU.

What nonsense. Have you worked out who to complain to?

To be fair, though, being autistic doesn't automatically mean that someone won't speak to strangers, and they probably can't just take your word for it over the phone, otherwise it would be an easy get-out for fraudsters. If you've got any professional reports explaining the problem, send them a copy or take them with you to the interview. I doubt that it's worth you arguing about it any more.

How old is DD2

I don't know what the purpose of these interviews are, but I imagine they will take any required information from you but still have to 'lay eyes' on dd.

She is eighteen next week. I am happy to go, I am happy to answer the questions but as far as I am concerned they are not listening. If they asked me for evidence, fine, I can provide it,all I have had so far though is the somewhat torturous and circular route back to the start. Oh and if I can avoid extra distress for her, I will. If forced to attend then she will panic for a week before and it could mess her up for a month after. Gits!

Evening Dawn

I do not think you are being unreasonable but neither do I think Passport office is. I agree with Icimou they cannot just take your word for it over the phone. A passport is a powerful piece of ID and reasonable checks need to be made. Sorry!

Sorry, I agree with the other disagree-ers for the reasons they have given.
Although that doesn't mean I don't sympathise with you.

I would have expected them to immediately have asked for a consultant's report as corroboration of what you were saying and maybe proof of DLA or PIP.

It's not hard.

yanbu there should be a policy that every member of staff knows and should be able to tell you what to bring or do for carers.

You :- my daugter is asd and she can not deal with strangers
PP:- You can come with her, bring a dx letter and what can we do to help.
you:- ?????

I would write again and would send proof of your dd diagnosis. Might also be worth paying for GP letter stating that interview would be too stressful for her.

As stated, quite happy to do what's necessary but turning up for an interview where they are unprepared is plain daft and dangerous for dd's well being.

There's nothing more frustrating then when call centres and agencies won't listen to what you're saying!! Sending a stock answer that has completely ignores the question is basically saying 'I don't care about your issue so there'. Good luck!!