Yes. PIP isn\u2019t about whether something can be done once. The law says activities only \u201ccount\u201d if they can be done reliably - that is safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly and within a reasonable time. If pain\/fatigue mean the task can\u2019t be repeated or takes too long - as is usually the case with EDS - the higher-scoring descriptor should be considered. Also apply the majority-of-days (12-month) rule.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":116021380,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":116021381,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":116021382,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115803960,"value":"We have seen a person with EDS who can shop, walk - even jog or run. Can they still qualify for PIP?"},"padding":{"id":115803964,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115803965,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115803966,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115803967,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115803968,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":116021376,"value":"We have seen a person with EDS who can shop, walk - even jog or run. Can they still qualify for PIP?"},"answerMeta":{"id":116021377,"value":"
Yes. PIP isn\u2019t about whether something can be done once. The law says activities only \u201ccount\u201d if they can be done reliably - that is safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly and within a reasonable time. If pain\/fatigue mean the task can\u2019t be repeated or takes too long - as is usually the case with EDS - the higher-scoring descriptor should be considered. Also apply the majority-of-days (12-month) rule.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":116021378,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4673589,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":3,"items":[{"id":4681133,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":116021386,"value":"
Because the official guide tells the DWP to consider symptoms such as pain and fatigue when judging if someone can do an activity repeatedly. With EDS, \u201cgood moments\u201d are common - but repeating the task brings payback (later pain\/fatigue\/instability). A snapshot doesn\u2019t answer the reliability test.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":116021387,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":116021388,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":116021389,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115810744,"value":"Why do we keep hearing about \u2018masking\u2019 pain and fatigue?"},"padding":{"id":115810748,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115810749,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115810750,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115810751,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115810752,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":116021383,"value":"Why do we keep hearing about \u2018masking\u2019 pain and fatigue?"},"answerMeta":{"id":116021384,"value":"
Because the official guide tells the DWP to consider symptoms such as pain and fatigue when judging if someone can do an activity repeatedly. With EDS, \u201cgood moments\u201d are common - but repeating the task brings payback (later pain\/fatigue\/instability). A snapshot doesn\u2019t answer the reliability test.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":116021385,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4673593,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":2,"items":[{"id":4673594,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115810779,"value":"
Choose the descriptor that applies on more than 50% of days across the 12-month period (3 months back + 9 months forward). \u201cGood days\u201d don\u2019t erase frequent \u201cbad days.\u201d<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115810780,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":115810781,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115810782,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115810770,"value":"What does \u2018majority of days\u2019 mean in practice?"},"questionMeta":{"id":115810771,"value":"What does \u2018majority of days\u2019 mean in practice?"},"answerMeta":{"id":115810772,"value":"
Choose the descriptor that applies on more than 50% of days across the 12-month period (3 months back + 9 months forward). \u201cGood days\u201d don\u2019t erase frequent \u201cbad days.\u201d<\/p>"},"template":{"id":115810773,"value":"expandable"},"padding":{"id":115810774,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115810775,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115810776,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115810777,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115810778,"value":"[]"}}},{"id":4673595,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":4,"items":[{"id":4676359,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115888451,"value":"
For EDS and other invisible illnesses, treat social media as weak, context-poor evidence. Systematic online monitoring can be directed surveillance that requires authorisation and must be necessary and proportionate with less-intrusive options considered. Either way, weigh any post against the reliability and majority-of-days rules.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115888452,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":115888453,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115888454,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115810783,"value":"We\u2019ve seen upbeat social posts of a person with EDS, out with friends. Is that reliable evidence?"},"padding":{"id":115810787,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115810788,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115810789,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115810790,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115810791,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":115888448,"value":"We\u2019ve seen upbeat social posts of a person with EDS, out with friends. Is that reliable evidence?"},"answerMeta":{"id":115888449,"value":"
For EDS and other invisible illnesses, treat social media as weak, context-poor evidence. Systematic online monitoring can be directed surveillance that requires authorisation and must be necessary and proportionate with less-intrusive options considered. Either way, weigh any post against the reliability and majority-of-days rules.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":115888450,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4673597,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":5,"items":[{"id":4676360,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115888458,"value":"
It\u2019s just one datapoint. The clips likely don't show repeatability, acceptable standard, reasonable time, or next-day (or later-that-day) effects. If surveillance is used, it must be lawfully authorised and weighed against longitudinal clinical evidence and the reliability test.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115888459,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":115888460,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115888461,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115810796,"value":"We have clips from surveillance. Don't they prove capability?"},"padding":{"id":115810800,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115810801,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115810802,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115810803,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115810804,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":115888455,"value":"We have clips from surveillance. Don't they prove capability?"},"answerMeta":{"id":115888456,"value":"
It\u2019s just one datapoint. The clips likely don't show repeatability, acceptable standard, reasonable time, or next-day (or later-that-day) effects. If surveillance is used, it must be lawfully authorised and weighed against longitudinal clinical evidence and the reliability test.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":115888457,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4673599,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":6,"items":[{"id":4673914,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115817210,"value":"
Not necessarily. Mobility scores depend on planning\/following journeys and moving around reliably (including pain, fatigue, time and distance). A person with EDS may drive on good days yet still be unable to repeatedly move around safely or in a reasonable time on most days.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115817211,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":115817212,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115817213,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115810809,"value":"Driving a car means good mobility, right?"},"padding":{"id":115810813,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115810814,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115810815,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115810816,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115810817,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":115817207,"value":"Driving a car means good mobility, right?"},"answerMeta":{"id":115817208,"value":"
Not necessarily. Mobility scores depend on planning\/following journeys and moving around reliably (including pain, fatigue, time and distance). A person with EDS may drive on good days yet still be unable to repeatedly move around safely or in a reasonable time on most days.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":115817209,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4673601,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":7,"items":[{"id":4673915,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115817217,"value":"
Because both distance and time\/after-effects matter. If walking 20\u201350m causes severe pain\/fatigue so it can\u2019t be repeated or takes over twice as long, they may meet a higher descriptor. It is common with the vast majority of EDS sufferers that any exertion is achieved by pushing through pain, and that debilitating, painful flare-ups will occur hours or even days later as a result of that exercise.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115817218,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":115817219,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115817220,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115810822,"value":"They walked 50m - why might they still score for mobility?"},"padding":{"id":115810826,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115810827,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115810828,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115810829,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115810830,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":115817214,"value":"They walked 50m - why might they still score for mobility?"},"answerMeta":{"id":115817215,"value":"
Because both distance and time\/after-effects matter. If walking 20\u201350m causes severe pain\/fatigue so it can\u2019t be repeated or takes over twice as long, they may meet a higher descriptor. It is common with the vast majority of EDS sufferers that any exertion is achieved by pushing through pain, and that debilitating, painful flare-ups will occur hours or even days later as a result of that exercise.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":115817216,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4673603,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":8,"items":[{"id":4676361,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115888465,"value":"
Yes. PIP isn\u2019t about a one-off achievement; it\u2019s about whether activities can be done reliably - safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly and within a reasonable time - on the majority of days across 12 months. Many with EDS experience significant pain and fatigue and may crash for days after an exceptional effort. A single event doesn\u2019t prove they can repeat similar exertion or everyday tasks reliably without harm.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115888466,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":115888467,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115888468,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115810835,"value":"They completed a long distance run for charity. Can they still qualify for PIP?"},"padding":{"id":115810839,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115810840,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115810841,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115810842,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115810843,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":115888462,"value":"They completed a long distance run for charity. Can they still qualify for PIP?"},"answerMeta":{"id":115888463,"value":"
Yes. PIP isn\u2019t about a one-off achievement; it\u2019s about whether activities can be done reliably - safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly and within a reasonable time - on the majority of days across 12 months. Many with EDS experience significant pain and fatigue and may crash for days after an exceptional effort. A single event doesn\u2019t prove they can repeat similar exertion or everyday tasks reliably without harm.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":115888464,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4673660,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":9,"items":[{"id":4673661,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115812246,"value":"
Not by PIP standards. The question is whether comparable exertion - and far more routine activities like walking to the shop or preparing a meal - can be done repeatedly and within a reasonable time most days. EDS commonly involves joint instability and fatigue; over-exertion often triggers a prolonged flare, so snapshot achievements are weak evidence without longitudinal context.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115812247,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":115812248,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115812249,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115812237,"value":"They hiked a mountain. Doesn\u2019t that show capability?"},"questionMeta":{"id":115812238,"value":"They hiked a mountain. Doesn\u2019t that show capability?"},"answerMeta":{"id":115812239,"value":"
Not by PIP standards. The question is whether comparable exertion - and far more routine activities like walking to the shop or preparing a meal - can be done repeatedly and within a reasonable time most days. EDS commonly involves joint instability and fatigue; over-exertion often triggers a prolonged flare, so snapshot achievements are weak evidence without longitudinal context.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":115812240,"value":"expandable"},"padding":{"id":115812241,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115812242,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115812243,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115812244,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115812245,"value":"[]"}}},{"id":4673662,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":10,"items":[{"id":4681134,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":116021393,"value":"
Be careful. Lifts done once - perhaps on a \u201cgood moment\u201d - don\u2019t show the person can do them safely or repeatedly. In EDS, brief loads can precipitate sprains, subluxations\/dislocations and next-day pain\/fatigue, failing the reliability test even if the lift was technically possible at the time.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":116021394,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":116021395,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":116021396,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115812250,"value":"They were seen lifting shopping. Shouldn\u2019t that lower their score?"},"padding":{"id":115812254,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115812255,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115812256,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115812257,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115812258,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":116021390,"value":"They were seen lifting shopping. Shouldn\u2019t that lower their score?"},"answerMeta":{"id":116021391,"value":"
Be careful. Lifts done once - perhaps on a \u201cgood moment\u201d - don\u2019t show the person can do them safely or repeatedly. In EDS, brief loads can precipitate sprains, subluxations\/dislocations and next-day pain\/fatigue, failing the reliability test even if the lift was technically possible at the time.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":116021392,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4673664,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":13,"items":[{"id":4681136,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":116021407,"value":"
Start with longitudinal clinical evidence (specialist\/OT\/GP letters, care plans, prescriptions), diaries and carer statements mapped to reliability and majority-of-days. Treat social media clips or brief surveillance as corroborative at best, not determinative.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":116021408,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":116021409,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":116021410,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115812263,"value":"What\u2019s the fairest evidence order for EDS?"},"padding":{"id":115812267,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115812268,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115812269,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115812270,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115812271,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":116021404,"value":"What\u2019s the fairest evidence order for EDS?"},"answerMeta":{"id":116021405,"value":"
Start with longitudinal clinical evidence (specialist\/OT\/GP letters, care plans, prescriptions), diaries and carer statements mapped to reliability and majority-of-days. Treat social media clips or brief surveillance as corroborative at best, not determinative.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":116021406,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4676210,"type":"row","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":14,"items":[{"id":4681137,"type":"pod","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"title":{"id":116021424,"value":null},"copy":{"id":116021425,"value":null},"media":{"id":116021426,"value":"image"},"image":{"id":116021427,"value":"{\"src\":\"https:\\\/\\\/images.podos.io\\\/dtnw6xhmhlubek1zimxpjfaqzf8l4sni8pnqds9dd2sjtww0.png.png?w=auto&h=auto\",\"alt\":\"\"}"},"video":{"id":116021428,"value":null},"autoplayInBackground":{"id":116021429,"value":"1"},"titleSize":{"id":116021430,"value":"1"},"overlay":{"id":116021431,"value":"1"},"href":{"id":116021432,"value":null},"borderRadius":{"id":116021433,"value":"#{image.border.radius}"},"overlayOpacity":{"id":116021434,"value":"0"},"overlayColors":{"id":116021435,"value":null},"overlayDirection":{"id":116021436,"value":"90"},"template":{"id":116021437,"value":"pod"},"padding":{"id":116021438,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":116021439,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":116021440,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":116021441,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":116021442,"value":"[]"},"ratio":{"id":116021443,"value":"short"}}},{"id":4681138,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":1,"items":[],"properties":{"padding":{"id":116021444,"value":"2"},"html":{"id":116021445,"value":"
EDS UK was contacted by Capita, an independent company working with the Department for Work and Pensions, in 2022, relating to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments across England and Wales.<\/p>
The DWP wanted to find out more about the Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and how they affect individuals, and invited support group EDS UK to ask any questions they had about the assessment process. They were also keen to discuss how they could work together in the future.<\/p>
Although there is not much evidence, as of 2025, that this information has filtered through to all DWP regions, the information is nevertheless on record.<\/p>
Here are some of the questions asked about PIP by EDS UK, and answered on behalf of the DWP:<\/p>
EDS is a variable condition, it often fluctuates and differs from person to person. Is this considered during the assessment and what is the impact if an individual is having a good day?<\/strong><\/p> With the information from the template as well as the awareness session the hope is that there will be understanding of this variability of the condition on a day to day or week by week basis. This can be supported with a claimant diary and supporting statements from friends, families, carers, partners, and colleagues (those who see the claimant on a daily basis or regularly) to demonstrate the issues the claimant may face.<\/em><\/p> Individuals with hypermobility will have a good range of movement, this makes the physical examination inappropriate as although an individual may be able to lift their arms above their head or place their hands flat on the ground, it does not mean that they do not have pain, difficulty with movement and other issues. How can this be taken into account?<\/strong><\/p> This will be fed back to the team with immediate affect with assessors notified that range of movement does not reflect an absence of disability. There are currently changes going on as to whether there is any need for physical assessment in general, as there are many conditions where it\u2019s unnecessary.<\/em><\/p> EDS is an invisible condition, with individuals often looking \u2018well\u2019. How is this taken into consideration during the assessment?\u00a0Additionally, if an individual has presented themselves well, why is this often counted against them?<\/strong><\/p> With the information from the template and the awareness session, the hope is that this is understood and taken into account during assessments.\u00a0 EDS being an invisible condition will also be fed back to the teams, as it\u2019s something which can be taken into account immediately but more in-depth information about why this is will be included in the template and awareness session.\u00a0 Capita were saddened to hear that individuals were discriminated against during their assessment for being presentable and will be sharing this feedback with the team to educate them on this matter.<\/em><\/p>"},"textColor":{"id":116021446,"value":"#{feature.text.color}"}}},{"id":4681139,"type":"button","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":2,"items":[],"properties":{"text":{"id":116021447,"value":"Read the full report"},"href":{"id":116021448,"value":"https:\/\/www.ehlers-danlos.org\/news\/eds-uk-participates-in-pip-consultation\/"},"borderRadius":{"id":116021449,"value":"#{feature.border.radius}"},"align":{"id":116021450,"value":"left"},"primaryColor":{"id":116021451,"value":"#{button.primary.color}"},"secondaryColor":{"id":116021452,"value":"#{feature.text.color}"},"primary":{"id":116021453,"value":"0"}}}],"properties":{"direction":{"id":116021411,"value":"column"},"icon":{"id":116021412,"value":null},"title":{"id":116021413,"value":"Related News"},"textColor":{"id":116021414,"value":"#{feature.text.color}"},"backgroundColor":{"id":116021415,"value":"#{feature.background.color}"},"buttonText":{"id":116021416,"value":"Read the full report"},"copy":{"id":116021417,"value":" EDS UK was contacted by Capita, an independent company working with the Department for Work and Pensions, in 2022, relating to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments across England and Wales.<\/p> The DWP wanted to find out more about the Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and how they affect individuals, and invited support group EDS UK to ask any questions they had about the assessment process. They were also keen to discuss how they could work together in the future.<\/p> Although there is not much evidence, as of 2025, that this information has filtered through to all DWP regions, the information is nevertheless on record.<\/p> Here are some of the questions asked about PIP by EDS UK, and answered on behalf of the DWP:<\/p> EDS is a variable condition, it often fluctuates and differs from person to person. Is this considered during the assessment and what is the impact if an individual is having a good day?<\/strong><\/p> With the information from the template as well as the awareness session the hope is that there will be understanding of this variability of the condition on a day to day or week by week basis. This can be supported with a claimant diary and supporting statements from friends, families, carers, partners, and colleagues (those who see the claimant on a daily basis or regularly) to demonstrate the issues the claimant may face.<\/em><\/p> Individuals with hypermobility will have a good range of movement, this makes the physical examination inappropriate as although an individual may be able to lift their arms above their head or place their hands flat on the ground, it does not mean that they do not have pain, difficulty with movement and other issues. How can this be taken into account?<\/strong><\/p> This will be fed back to the team with immediate affect with assessors notified that range of movement does not reflect an absence of disability. There are currently changes going on as to whether there is any need for physical assessment in general, as there are many conditions where it\u2019s unnecessary.<\/em><\/p> EDS is an invisible condition, with individuals often looking \u2018well\u2019. How is this taken into consideration during the assessment? Additionally, if an individual has presented themselves well, why is this often counted against them?<\/strong><\/p> With the information from the template and the awareness session, the hope is that this is understood and taken into account during assessments. EDS being an invisible condition will also be fed back to the teams, as it\u2019s something which can be taken into account immediately but more in-depth information about why this is will be included in the template and awareness session. Capita were saddened to hear that individuals were discriminated against during their assessment for being presentable and will be sharing this feedback with the team to educate them on this matter.<\/em><\/p>"},"template":{"id":116021418,"value":"feature"},"padding":{"id":116021419,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":116021420,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":116021421,"value":"#{feature.fullBackground.color}"},"published":{"id":116021422,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":116021423,"value":"[]"}}},{"id":4676717,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":17,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115896042,"value":" Teemill is an ethical print-on-demand service that supplies fundraising products for the likes of Greenpeace, the RSPB, Wildlife Trusts, BBC Earth, Chris Packham and more. We have teamed up with Teemill to offer a selection of EDS-related gifts. 100% of profits<\/strong> will go into social media advertising to promote this website and educate people about living with EDS.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115896043,"value":"#{text.border.radius}"},"textColor":{"id":115896044,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115896045,"value":"#0000"},"truncateHeight":{"id":115896046,"value":null},"padding":{"id":115896048,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115896049,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115896050,"value":"#{text.fullBackground.color}"},"published":{"id":115896051,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115896052,"value":"[]"},"template":{"id":115946454,"value":"text"}}},{"id":4678409,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":11,"items":[{"id":4681135,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":116021400,"value":" Brain fog describes short-term problems with focus, memory, word-finding and processing speed. In EDS it\u2019s commonly driven by a mix of factors:<\/p> Autonomic dysfunction (e.g. PoTS) - poor blood pressure\/heart-rate control can reduce \u201chead-up\u201d blood flow and worsen cognition.<\/p><\/li> Chronic pain and poor sleep - pain and non-restorative sleep degrade attention and working memory.<\/p><\/li> General fatigue and deconditioning over time.<\/p><\/li><\/ul>"},"borderRadius":{"id":116021401,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":116021402,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":116021403,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115945655,"value":"What is \u201cbrain fog\u201d and how does EDS cause it?"},"padding":{"id":115945659,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115945660,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115945661,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115945662,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115945663,"value":"[]"},"questionMeta":{"id":116021397,"value":"What is \u201cbrain fog\u201d and how does EDS cause it?"},"answerMeta":{"id":116021398,"value":" Brain fog describes short-term problems with focus, memory, word-finding and processing speed. In EDS it\u2019s commonly driven by a mix of factors:<\/p> Autonomic dysfunction (e.g. PoTS) - poor blood pressure\/heart-rate control can reduce \u201chead-up\u201d blood flow and worsen cognition.<\/p><\/li> Chronic pain and poor sleep - pain and non-restorative sleep degrade attention and working memory.<\/p><\/li> General fatigue and deconditioning over time.<\/p><\/li><\/ul>"},"template":{"id":116021399,"value":"expandable"}}},{"id":4678411,"type":"expandable","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":12,"items":[{"id":4678412,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":0,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115945677,"value":" Yes. Many supports aren\u2019t obvious: joint braces\/splints, orthotics\/insoles, kinesiology tape, compression garments, perching stools, grab rails, adapted kitchen tools, ergonomic keyboards\/mice, trolleys, etc. These are typical \u201caids\/appliances\u201d used to make tasks safer or doable for people with EDS.<\/p> For PIP, an aid or appliance is any device that improves, provides or replaces an impaired function<\/em> - and can include everyday objects used in an adapted way. Awards are based on the need, not just current availability or prescription status. In practice, an aid can count if you normally use it or it would be reasonable to expect you to use it.<\/p>"},"borderRadius":{"id":115945678,"value":"4px"},"textColor":{"id":115945679,"value":"#{text.color}"},"backgroundColour":{"id":115945680,"value":"#0000"}}}],"properties":{"title":{"id":115945668,"value":"If someone isn\u2019t using a stick or crutch, might they be using \u201chidden\u201d supports?"},"questionMeta":{"id":115945669,"value":"If someone isn\u2019t using a stick or crutch, might they be using \u201chidden\u201d supports?"},"answerMeta":{"id":115945670,"value":" Yes. Many supports aren\u2019t obvious: joint braces\/splints, orthotics\/insoles, kinesiology tape, compression garments, perching stools, grab rails, adapted kitchen tools, ergonomic keyboards\/mice, trolleys, etc. These are typical \u201caids\/appliances\u201d used to make tasks safer or doable for people with EDS.<\/p> For PIP, an aid or appliance is any device that improves, provides or replaces an impaired function<\/em> - and can include everyday objects used in an adapted way. Awards are based on the need, not just current availability or prescription status. In practice, an aid can count if you normally use it or it would be reasonable to expect you to use it.<\/p>"},"template":{"id":115945671,"value":"expandable"},"padding":{"id":115945672,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115945673,"value":"0"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115945674,"value":"#fff0"},"published":{"id":115945675,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115945676,"value":"[]"}}},{"id":4678413,"type":"banner","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":16,"items":[],"properties":{"type":{"id":115945693,"value":"slim"},"title":{"id":115945694,"value":null},"copy":{"id":115945695,"value":null},"titleColor":{"id":115945696,"value":"#{banner.title.color}"},"titleBackground":{"id":115945697,"value":"#{banner.title.background.color}"},"copyColor":{"id":115945698,"value":"#{banner.copy.color}"},"copyBackground":{"id":115945699,"value":"#{banner.copy.background.color}"},"contentWidth":{"id":115945700,"value":"95%"},"textShadow":{"id":115945701,"value":"#{banner.text.shadow}"},"borderRadius":{"id":115945702,"value":"0px"},"buttonBorderRadius":{"id":115945703,"value":"#{button.border.radius}"},"buttonBackgroundColor":{"id":115945704,"value":"#{button.primary.color}"},"buttonStyle":{"id":115945705,"value":"secondary"},"buttonSize":{"id":115945706,"value":"standard"},"overlayOpacity":{"id":115945707,"value":"0"},"overlayColourStart":{"id":115945708,"value":"#000000"},"overlayColourEnd":{"id":115945709,"value":"#000000"},"overlayDirection":{"id":115945710,"value":"90"},"image":{"id":115945711,"value":"{\"src\":\"https:\\\/\\\/images.podos.io\\\/qth5kqakrrynz49zymwcdp9dkcxpequg7dxlh98qcyg1itzs.png.png?w=auto&h=auto\",\"alt\":\"\"}"},"video":{"id":115945712,"value":null},"videoThumbnail":{"id":115945713,"value":null},"media":{"id":115945714,"value":"image"},"align":{"id":115945715,"value":"center"},"verticalAlignment":{"id":115945716,"value":"center"},"font":{"id":115945717,"value":"#{heading1.font}"},"actions":{"id":115945718,"value":"[{\"text\":null,\"href\":null},{\"text\":null,\"href\":null}]"},"padding":{"id":115945720,"value":"6"},"fullWidth":{"id":115945721,"value":"1"},"fullBackgroundColor":{"id":115945722,"value":"#{banner.fullBackground.color}"},"published":{"id":115945723,"value":"1"},"conditions":{"id":115945724,"value":"[]"},"template":{"id":116021459,"value":"banner"}}},{"id":4678433,"type":"textBlock","published":1,"size":{"x":12,"y":0},"order":15,"items":[],"properties":{"html":{"id":115946392,"value":" PIP Assessment Guide, Part 2: The assessment criteria<\/strong> (reliability test; aids\/appliances). GOV.UK<\/a><\/p><\/li> PIP Assessment Guide, Part 1: The assessment process<\/strong> (informal observations limited to within the consultation). GOV.UK<\/a><\/p><\/li> PIP Regulations 2013<\/strong> \u2013 Reg 4 (reliably; reasonable time) & Reg 7 (majority of days). Legislation.gov.uk<\/a><\/p><\/li> DWP ADM Chapter P2<\/strong> (Decision Maker examples applying \u201csafely, acceptable standard, repeatedly, reasonable time\u201d). GOV.UK<\/a><\/p><\/li>DWP did seek information about EDS<\/h2>
This website is a partnership with Teemill<\/h3>
References<\/h3>