The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is considering major changes to the distribution of Personal Independence Payments (PIP), which could have an impact upon millions of claimants.
A recent Green Paper consultation brought forward proposals to end cash payments in favour of a voucher or catalogue system.
In addition, officials are examining changes to the eligibility and assessment criteria for PIP, a benefit designed to help people with long-term conditions.
Top Health Conditions Qualifying for PIP
At present, more than 540 conditions qualify for PIP, with the five main ones the focus of attention.
- Psychiatric Disorders: This is the most common category, accounting for 37% of claims, with 1,318,073 people. It includes conditions such as mixed anxiety, stress, depressive and mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and cognitive disorders.
- Musculoskeletal Disease (General): Accounts for 20% of claims with 691,660 recipients.
- Neurological Disease: Comprises 13% of claims, totalling 434,867 individuals.
- Musculoskeletal Disease (Regional): Represents 12% of claims with 410,511 recipients.
- Respiratory Disease: Makes up 4% of claims, involving 139,059 individuals.
Proposed Changes and Issues of Concern
Earlier in April, proposals were introduced to change the eligibility criteria to better tailor the system to individual needs. Ministers have highlighted the increase in the number of claimants suffering from primary mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, which adds significantly to the cost of disability benefits.
Labour baroness Margaret Ritchie recently questioned the government in the House of Lords about measures to protect people from serious harm caused by new policies being consulted on for PIP.
Viscount James Younger responded by pointing out that the consultation had three main priorities:
- Providing Appropriate Support: Ensuring that people in need receive appropriate help.
- Targeting Resources Effectively: Allocate resources as efficiently as possible.
- Supporting Independent Living: Supporting people with disabilities and long-term conditions to live independently and achieve their full potential.
Viscount Younger assured that any proposal would be carefully assessed for its impact. He acknowledged the vulnerability of many claimants and said the DWP had policies and procedures in place to support people facing difficult personal circumstances or life events. These supports will continue if changes are implemented following the consultation.