What does PIP mean by "communicating verbally"?

It covers both expressing yourself (speaking, making yourself understood) and understanding others (comprehension, following conversations). Using sign language interpreters or communication apps counts as needing support.

Can autism affect the communicating verbally PIP score?

Yes. Autism can affect understanding complex verbal information (tone, sarcasm, implied meaning), scoring 4 points under descriptor 7c. Many autistic people need support to understand what others really mean.

Do hearing aids count for PIP points?

Yes. Using a hearing aid scores 2 points under descriptor 7b. If you still struggle with complex conversation even with hearing aids, you may score higher.

PIP Activity 7: Communicating Verbally — Descriptors, Points & How to Score

Activity 7 assesses whether you can express yourself verbally and understand what others say to you. This includes using aids like hearing aids and communication devices.

This is a Daily Living activity. Maximum score: 12 points.

All Descriptors for Communicating Verbally

Descriptor	Description	Points	Examples
7a	Can express and understand verbal information unaided	0	—
7b	Needs to use an aid or appliance to speak or hear (common in: deafness, stroke, laryngectomy)	2	hearing aid, speech device
7c	Needs communication support to express or understand complex verbal information (common in: autism, aphasia, Long Covid, learning disability)	4	interpreter, advocate, family member explains tone/sarcasm
7d	Needs communication support to express or understand basic verbal information (common in: dementia, severe learning disability, severe stroke)	8	cannot understand simple instructions
7e	Cannot express or understand verbal information at all (common in: severe autism, severe stroke)	12	non-verbal, complete aphasia

The Reliability Test for Communicating Verbally

Even if you can technically do this activity, you should score higher points if you cannot do it:

Safely — without risk of harm to yourself or others
Repeatedly — as often as needed throughout the day
To an Acceptable Standard — properly and completely
In a Reasonable Time — not taking much longer than average

Failing ANY one of these four tests means you should score higher points, even if you can sometimes do the activity.

What Evidence Helps for Communicating Verbally?

Speech therapy reports, audiology assessments, evidence of communication aids or apps used, statements from family about communication difficulties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not mentioning hearing aids count as aids, not explaining that autism affects understanding tone and sarcasm, forgetting that brain fog affects verbal communication.

Related Activities

Free Tools to Help

Free PIP Eligibility Checker — estimate your points for all 12 activities
Mandatory Reconsideration Letter Builder — challenge a PIP decision
Evidence Request Builder — get supporting evidence from your GP
Assessment Preparation — practice PIP assessment questions