Great thanks, im good at this explanation now but do feel almost like starting a charity to get more done in the UK in general, its unfair to have to defend your position all the time. Good luck

I went through it. Be prepared to be your best self. I went in with no makeup, trying to look as bad as I felt. The Judge told me he was glad to see that I was not obese and looked fairly well despite my illness. I don't know if they all think that way, but it helped me. BTW, they do usually turn you down the first time. But ALWAYS get an attorney.

I know it's a different process here in the UK, but the basics remain the same I would think. I've been through two types and had to appeal one of them (which I then won)
It's important to keep up with doctors appointment and try the meds.
Keep a journal for a week (longer if you can) to show your activity V need to rest times.
Tell them that it takes you 6 or 10 times longer to complete a task. Be truthful, based on your worst days, worst pain, worst fatigue etc.
You don't need to have all those things every day all day, but that it can vary to the time of day, very unpredictable and sometimes completely unexpected. If fibromyalgia affects your sleep, tell them how debilitating it is.
Be aware, they will likely be observing you before you even enter the building, and in the waiting area.
It is anxiety producing, certainly. Talk slowly and ask them to repeat or explain anything you don't understand.
Good luck with it all. 💗

When i went to my disability appointment it was more of a medical examination. I first spoke to a psychiatrist and she asked me questions about my mental state, stress, depression, etc. Next they gave me a physical exam, asked all kinds of questions like what conditions I had, what diagnosis was I given, where did I feel pain, intensity, etc. I was just honest with them, I told them what drs I had seen, diagnosis I was given, meds I was on, X-rays, MRI’s, etc. and afterwards they took X-rays of my neck and back, I also have bulging discs so my neck and back are always hurting. Best thing to do is take a list of meds you take, names of doctors you’ve seen and information of any X-rays or other tests and procedures you’ve had.
I hope this helps.

I’m not applying for disability but I have brought my test reports to several doctors and the chiropractor. It was very helpful.