I’m autistic and I struggle socially. I’ve only ever worked part time and for the last six years I haven’t worked at all. I find the workplace scary and stressful, it makes me feel panicky and I feel like I’m at constant threat of something bad happening. All I can think about is counting the hours until I can go back home to my safe space.
The specialist who diagnosed me told me to apply for PIP because my autism is affecting me so that I cannot work. But the government is saying PIP is for care needs (which I don’t have) not for supporting you when you can’t work. They’ve asked me some clarification questions over the phone and now they want me to attend an assessment.
I’m very worried. Obviously they’re looking for reasons why I shouldn’t get PIP. Should I be taking someone with me? Should I say as little as possible? I’m really anxious.