The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that an update on the review of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) will be released soon.
PIP is a benefit provided to individuals requiring additional assistance due to health issues, disabilities, or mental health conditions. Proposed alterations to PIP, including modifications to the scoring system determining eligibility, were discarded by the Labour party after facing resistance from MPs, disability advocacy groups, and activists.
Nonetheless, the Government is reevaluating the PIP claiming regulations, with a final decision anticipated in autumn 2026. Sir Stephen Timms, the Minister for Social Security and Disability, is spearheading the review, which will consider the overall PIP evaluation process.
Most PIP applicants must undergo a health assessment via phone, video call, or in-person before their eligibility is determined. Sir Stephen recently provided an update on the Timms Review in response to a parliamentary inquiry.
Bradley Thomas, the Conservative MP for Bromsgrove, inquired about the timeline for reviewing the PIP assessment procedure and whether disabled individuals, caregivers, and the general public would be involved in the review.
In a recent written response, Sir Stephen Timms stated that the Timms Review would be collaboratively developed with disabled individuals, their representative organizations, healthcare professionals, caregivers, experts, MPs, and others to ensure real-life experiences are central to the review process.
He mentioned, “We anticipate the review will be finalized by Autumn 2026. The findings will be presented to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions for potential decision-making, which may involve legislative adjustments or other non-legislative actions.”
Furthermore, he emphasized the inclusive nature of the review process, pointing out ongoing engagements with disabled individuals, disability organizations, welfare charities, and experts to incorporate diverse perspectives effectively. An update on the progress is expected soon.
