Medical evidence is a key factor in achieving a successful outcome in social security appeals. However, there are a number of challenges and risk factors that advisers need to be aware of when gathering and presenting medical evidence.

This 1hr and 30 mins practical session will show you how to access medical evidence from a range of sources and how to use it effectively to strengthen an appeal and improve your chances of success at the tribunal.

📅 Delivered by an experienced practitioner, this practical session will show you how to access medical evidence from a range of sources and how to use it effectively to strengthen an appeal and improve your chances of success at the tribunal.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the legal tests applied in:
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
  • Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Universal Credit (UC) Work Capability Assessments
• Identify and obtain relevant medical evidence from a range of sources, including:
  • GP records
  • Consultants and specialist healthcare professionals
  • Employers and other third parties
• Develop an effective timeline for requesting and gathering medical records.
• Present medical evidence clearly and persuasively to support an appeal.
• Recognise the value of GP notes and understand why they can be a hidden gem in benefit appeals.
• Understand the key benefits that strong medical evidence can bring to a case.
• Navigate GDPR considerations when requesting, handling and sharing medical information.

Who Should Attend?

This course is suitable for welfare rights advisers, advice workers, advocates and anyone supporting clients through the Social Security appeals process who wants to improve their understanding of medical evidence and its role in successful tribunal outcomes.