DWP PIP claims review change update as minister confirm replies over ‘lifelong’ conditions

A disabled PIP claimants group has said it is a ‘common sense approach’ and ‘makes things easier for claimants’

Minister of State for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms has responded to questions over PIP applications(Image: Getty Images)

The Government has issued an update after questions were raised about potential changes to personal independence payments (PIPs) for those receiving them. PIP (Personal Independence Payment) awards are granted for set periods, with review schedules varying according to individual cases, from “light touch” assessments for people whose conditions remain stable to full reassessments for others.

Recipients are contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to renew their claim when their award period ends, which can last from nine months to 10 years, with the DWP sending letters to begin the process.

However, some have called for people with ‘lifelong’ conditions to be exempt in certain cases from regular reapplication processes.

During recent parliamentary questions to the Department for Work and Pensions, Conservative MP Suella Braverman asked Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Pat McFadden whether: “His Department has considered exemptions or streamlined processes for PIP claimants with (a) Type 1 diabetes and (b) other lifelong and progressively complex conditions.”

In a follow-up question, Mrs Braverman asked: “What steps his Department is taking to help reduce the potential impact of PIP reassessments for chronic conditions on the mental health of families affected.”

She also asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether “his Department plans to reform the Personal Independence Payment reassessment process for people with (a) Type 1 diabetes and (b) other lifelong conditions.”

Sir Stephen Timms, Minister of State for Social Security and Disability, explained that apart from those with terminal conditions, the regulations would stay the same: “Other than for claims made under the special rules for people nearing the end of their life, all claims to PIP are treated in the same way. Entitlement to PIP is assessed on the basis of the needs arising from a health condition or disability, rather than the health condition or disability itself. Individuals can be affected in different ways by the same condition and so the outcome of a PIP claim depends very much on individual circumstances, including age and the ability to manage a condition without supervision or assistance.”

He also revealed the introduction of the Timms Review, saying: “I have launched the Timms Review with the aim of ensuring we have a system that supports disabled people to achieve better health, higher living standards and greater independence, including through employment. The Review will be co-produced with disabled people, the organisations that represent them, and other experts. This means the Government will share ownership and responsibility for how the Review runs and what it recommends.”

He wrapped up by setting out the timetable for the review: “The Timms Review will report to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions by autumn 2026, with an interim update expected ahead of that.”

PIP claimants have received reassurance from the social security minister, Sir Stephen Timms, that their eligibility will remain unchanged this year. Whilst discussing the Motability scheme, which enables PIP recipients on the higher mobility rate to lease a new vehicle, Sir Stephen confirmed that any modifications to the PIP eligibility criteria would be delayed until his review of the payments is finalised.

There is speculation that Chancellor Rachel Reeves could introduce reforms to elements of the Motability scheme in a bid to achieve savings in next month’s Budget.

South Shields MP and Labour backbencher Emma Lewell raised her concerns in the Commons last month, saying: “Motability is a lifeline for people with disabilities for getting to health appointments, studying, maintaining employment and so much more.

“Cuts to the scheme risk increased health needs and increased unemployment likely to cost much more than any short-term savings.

“Does (Sir Stephen) agree that before any proposed cuts, a proper impact assessment is absolutely vital?”. In response, Sir Stephen assured: “I can assure (Ms Lewell) that there will be no changes to the eligibility conditions for the Pip mobility component or indeed the other aspects of Pip until the conclusion of the review, which I will be leading and co-producing with disabled people. And that’s expected to report in the autumn of next year.”

Earlier this month, The Times suggested that luxury car brands such as BMWs and Mercedes could be removed from the Motability scheme. Ms Reeves is also considering changes to how Motability drivers are taxed, potentially saving around £1 billion, according to the newspaper.

Conservative MP for New Forest East, Sir Julian Lewis, remarked: “When severe mental illness strikes, it can be devastating and totally debilitating. But the problem from his department’s point of view is that its symptoms are invisible.

“There have been reports about people faking mental illness in order to gain benefits. Is he satisfied that his department has appropriate checks in place?”.

In reply, Sir Stephen said: “Yes, I think appropriate checks are in place, but as I’ve just mentioned, we are undertaking this review of the Pip assessment and we will need to look carefully – and we’ll be doing this together with disabled people – look carefully at the way these decisions and judgments are made.”