People who have been rejected for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) have been advised that they have one option with a high success rate. According to James Merrell, an expert in disability benefits who guides individuals through the PIP application process, approximately 70% of applicants who appeal against a rejected claim are successful.

This advice comes after the Labour Government announced significant changes to the welfare system last month, which aim to reduce the annual Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bill by £5 billion. Tightening the rules for PIP is a key part of these plans, which are expected to result in 400,000 Brits being cut from the daily living element of the scheme.

If an applicant is rejected for PIP, they can request a Mandatory Reconsideration within a month, and if that is rejected, they can take the DWP to a Tribunal Appeal. James explained the process: "If someone is rejected for PIP, they shouldn't give up hope.", reports the Daily Star.

"Around 70% of PIP decisions that go to tribunal are overturned in the claimant's favour – which tells you everything about how flawed the initial assessment process can be."

The following is a step-by-step guide, as outlined by the head of CWS Limited, which helps individuals with their PIP applications:

Mandatory Reconsideration.

This is the first step. You have one month from the date of your decision letter to ask the DWP to review their decision again.

Although, in most instances, individuals have 13 months to lodge an appeal. It's crucial for people to seek assistance; be precise about which descriptors they believe were incorrectly evaluated and include any new or overlooked evidence if possible.

Tribunal Appeal.

If the MR doesn't yield a favourable outcome, you can take your case to an independent tribunal. This is where the majority of successes occur.

Tribunals operate independently from the DWP and will give you the opportunity to present your side of the story.

Many claimants find the panel to be more impartial and empathetic than the initial assessment process.

Seek Support.

Remember, you don't have to navigate this process alone. There are advocacy groups, welfare rights advisors, and specialist qualified legal or health consultants (like myself) who can assist you in presenting your case clearly, utilising case law, medical evidence, and DWP regulations.

James' Top Advice.

Don't downplay your struggles. Be candid about your worst days, and concentrate on how your condition impacts you, not just what your diagnosis is and obtain supporting statements from those who are familiar with your challenges.