Hello, I am 35, disabled with a brain injury, causing short term memory loss, uncontrolled epilepsy and partial paralysis which affects my left side.

I am due to attend a work capability assessment next Monday and am very nervous as my PIP assessment which I thought went well apparently didn't and I'm having to appeal (was awarded enhanced mobility component but 1 point off standard daily living). I was 'marked down' in the report for (I assume) being able to open a screw top water bottle - preopened I might add, carrying a backpack (which was very lightweight and I use because of my difficulty using my left arm and I use my stick with my right hand!) I was also mentioned to be relaxed and engaging easily which was not the case, I was so distressed that I was physically sick before and after the assessment. I was 1 point off receiving the standard rate of daily living but awarded enhanced mobility rate. Due to my disability I can't leave my flat without assistance due to the stairs, I can't wash my hair, cook a meal other than putting a ready meal in the microwave and I spend roughly 2 hours a week studying my medication list to fill up my dosette box. If I don't do this I simply don't take my medication because I am never sure on dosages, times and whether I've already taken the medication or not. There's 11 different medications to be taken 6 times a day so its complicated.

I am also in a somewhat odd situation as I am still technically employed, I am incredibly lucky to have a wonderful employer who is, rather than retiring me due to ill health, creating a new role for me that will last me work from home. Unfortunately I can't do this yet because my current accommodation isn't suitable for a workstation and I'm waiting to finally be successful in a bid on a ground floor adapted property.

I am a little confused as to why I need to attend an assessment as I am already employed and terrified that if I get this wrong I'll lose the UC I already receive. Does anyone have any tips or advice on how to handle this interview? I have no idea what they are actually assessing me on, and I would be breaching my contract with my current employer should I take up other paid work so its not an option.