I’m Kerri, also known as K-Bear. I’m a care-experienced, neurodivergent woman living with ADHD, Autism, PTSD, fibromyalgia, and the long-term effects of trauma. I’ve overcome a lot in life — domestic abuse, abandonment, and years of trying to navigate a system that often doesn’t understand people like me.

Recently, I was denied PIP because I was seen as “coping.” But what they saw on paper was a snapshot — not the full story. Because I can sometimes cook a meal, sometimes take public transport, or sometimes create content on social media as a way to calm my suicidal thoughts, I was told I scored zero.

What they didn’t see:

That I’m often masking just to survive, then collapsing into burnout behind closed doors.

That my dog, who they scrutinised, is essential for regulating both myself and my neurodivergent children — not a luxury.

That creating content isn’t a sign of ease — it’s a lifeline that helps me stay grounded and fight intrusive thoughts.

That when I called to request a mandatory reconsideration while emotionally dysregulated, no safeguarding was offered. No reasonable adjustments were made.

We need urgent change.

---

🧩 What I’m calling for:

1. A full reform of the PIP assessment process, including how invisible disabilities, neurodivergence, and trauma are recognised

2. Mandatory trauma-informed and neurodivergent-aware training for all assessors and call handlers

3. Clear safeguarding protocols for vulnerable claimants in distress — especially during reconsideration calls

4. Payments to continue during the Mandatory Reconsideration process, so people are not left destitute and in despair

5. Reasonable adjustments throughout the process — including communication support and follow-up in writing

6. Lived experience advisory panels to shape long-overdue reform.

Without these changes, we will see a stark increase in deaths by suicide.

We are already in a mental health crisis. This system is harming the very people it’s supposed to protect.

If you believe we all deserve to be seen, heard, and supported — especially in our hardest moments — please sign this petition.

Let’s make this system one that recognises the unseen.

Much love, K-Bear hugs 💜💚🧡🤗🐻