What to do if you need a Welsh speaker for your PIP phone claim
If you are applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in England or Wales and need to make your initial claim by phone, you can request a Welsh speaker to assist you during the call. This is important if you feel more comfortable communicating in Welsh or if it helps you explain your condition more clearly.
How to request a Welsh speaker
When you call the PIP new claims phone line (0800 917 2222), you will be given the option at the start of the call to ask for a Welsh-speaking advisor. This means you do not need to make the request separately before calling. Simply listen to the initial instructions and select the option for Welsh language support.
If you cannot hear or speak on the phone, Relay UK services are available, but note that you cannot add someone else to your call if you are using a textphone. In such cases, you may ask someone else to call on your behalf, but you must be with them during the call.
Other support options during your claim
- You may be able to get a home visit from a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) officer to help you with your claim. You can ask about this when you call the PIP new claims line.
- If you prefer to apply by post or online, you can still request Welsh language support by indicating this when you make contact or complete forms.
What you’ll need when making your claim
Before you call, have ready:
- Your contact details, including telephone number
- Your date of birth
- Your National Insurance number, if you have one
- Details of your bank or building society account
- Information about your doctor or health worker
- Dates and addresses for any hospital or care home stays
- Details of any time spent abroad over 4 weeks and the countries visited
- Information about any money or support you or close family members receive from an EEA country or Switzerland
What happens after your call
After your phone call, you will be sent a form called ‘How your disability affects you’. You can complete this form online or by post. Guidance is provided with the form, and you should include any supporting documents such as prescription lists or care plans.
If you requested Welsh language support during your phone call, this should be noted on your claim, and any further contact or assessment arrangements can also be made with your language needs in mind.
Official reference: https://www.gov.uk/pip/how-to-claim. Always check the latest official guidance. Related forms: Browse our form category.
Important: This article provides general information. Government rules, forms and procedures can change, and this article may not reflect the latest updates. Check current GOV.UK guidance or the relevant authority before relying on it. ITG & Co. is independent and is not affiliated with a government department.