Government Consults on Potential Changes to Disability Support System PIP
The government has launched a consultation on potential changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the disability support system. These changes are being proposed as part of the prime minister’s pledge to reform the welfare system if the Conservatives win the next general election.
The proposed changes could impact the eligibility criteria for PIP and the types of payments received by those who are eligible. Here’s what you need to know:
What is PIP?
PIP is a tax-free payment given to people to help with the extra costs caused by long-term ill-health or disability. It has two parts: a daily living part for those with long-term physical or mental health conditions, and a mobility part for those who have difficulty with everyday tasks or getting around. The amount of payment varies depending on the level of need.
Who is currently eligible?
Currently, people aged between 16-64 can receive PIP regardless of whether they work, as long as their difficulties are expected to last for at least 12 months. Those who have been given a terminal diagnosis of 12 months or less can also apply and may receive PIP more quickly. Both physical and mental health conditions can qualify a person for PIP, and there is no specific list of eligible medical conditions.
How does the government make decisions about PIP?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) carries out an assessment to determine the level of support a person should receive. This assessment uses a points system, with more points given for more severe impacts and greater levels of assistance needed. Health professionals provide a report to the DWP with their recommendations, and applicants can also provide additional medical evidence to support their claim.
What changes does the government want to make?
The government is considering changes to PIP in several areas, including the assessment model, eligibility criteria, payments, and aligning support with existing disability services.
The consultation document outlines potential changes, including introducing a new assessment model based on a clinical diagnosis, changing the eligibility criteria to focus on those with the highest needs, and exploring alternative payment methods such as vouchers or grants. The government also wants to align PIP with other support services to provide more holistic support for disabled individuals.
Why does the government want to change PIP?
The government states that PIP caseloads and costs are spiraling, with a projected cost of £28 billion a year by 2028/29. It also notes a significant increase in the number of people receiving PIP for mental health conditions, which it attributes to the rise in monthly awards since 2019. The government’s priorities for making changes include providing the right support to those who need it most, targeting resources effectively, and supporting disabled individuals to live independently.
What do critics say?
Critics of the proposed changes believe they will target people with mental health problems and prevent them from receiving PIP. They are also concerned that the government has not specified which conditions would be eligible for PIP under the proposed reforms. Disability equality charity Scope and the Disability Benefits Consortium have both criticized the government’s approach, calling for a focus on fixing underlying issues and addressing concerns about the potential impact on disabled individuals.
How can I have my say?
The consultation is open until 23 July, and individuals can submit their responses online or by email. The government encourages all interested parties to review the consultation document and provide their thoughts and feedback on the proposed changes.
