Spencer's story
'I didn’t want to go to the hearing. But my adviser said I'd have a much better chance if I did.
When the day came, I hadn't slept so I felt terrible. I didn't want to be late and rushing, so I was there really early. I hated the waiting. It wasn’t so bad once I was in there talking to them.
When I went in, they introduced themselves and explained what was going to happen.
Then they asked me lots of questions - some of which I didn’t really want to answer, but I forced myself.
They asked how I was feeling today. I had to explain that I wasn’t feeling too bad but that I often have epileptic fits that leave me feeling terrible and 'foggy' for about four days afterwards.
We talked about the things I’ve done when I’ve had seizures, like the time when I fell down the stairs and broke my collarbone. I also had to admit I don’t always take my medication because I don’t like the side effects.
They asked what help I need when I go somewhere I don’t know, which was really difficult because I don’t go to places I don’t know. I avoid going to my corner shop on my own if I can help it in case I have a fit. But when I explained that, they seemed to understand. They quizzed me about how I had got to the tribunal centre.
Then we talked about what I cook and when. This was a bit embarrassing because I know I shouldn’t just eat tinned spaghetti or beans on toast but I can’t get round to doing anything better.
Then they asked me to go back to the waiting room. When they called me back in, they told me that they had given me middle rate care and low rate mobility. I was chuffed. Maybe I’ll be able to afford a few extra taxis now, so I can go and see my brother a bit more.'
Spencer, 39
