The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed there are 10 days remaining for people to submit evidence to the ongoing review of Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The consultation, led by Minister of State for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms, is examining how the UK’s main disability benefit operates and whether significant reforms should be introduced.
The review could affect around 3.9 million people currently receiving PIP across the UK. Areas under consideration include face-to-face assessments, longer review periods for people with deteriorating conditions, and the possibility of NHS medical records being shared directly with the DWP with claimant consent.
PIP is a non-means-tested benefit designed to help people with the additional costs associated with long-term illness or disability. Eligibility is not linked to income or employment status.
According to the review documents cited by the DWP, the number of working-age people receiving PIP increased from two million in 2019 to around three million within five years, while annual spending rose from £11 billion to £22 billion over the same period. The department said on X that the call for evidence will close on May 28, 2026, with findings expected to be reported later this year.
Review Examines Assessments, NHS Evidence Sharing, and Recording Procedures
Financial expert Laura Pomfret told BBC Morning Live that one of the most significant proposals under discussion is the wider use of face-to-face assessments. According to Pomfret, the DWP is considering increasing in-person assessments for PIP from 6% to 30%.
The same increase is being considered for Work Capability Assessments, which are separate from PIP. Pomfret noted that home visits and alternative arrangements would still be available for people unable to attend assessments in person.
The review is also exploring whether claimants could allow medical evidence to be transferred directly from the NHS to the DWP digitally. According to BBC Morning Live, the proposal is being considered as part of efforts to improve how supporting medical evidence is collected during applications and reviews. Pomfret said this particular measure is not expected immediately and is instead being considered for implementation around 2027 or 2028.
Another proposal under review involves recording assessments as standard practice. According to Pomfret, the idea is intended to improve trust in the assessment process and provide more accurate evidence during appeals. Claimants would reportedly still have the option to opt out of recordings if they choose.
Longer Review Cycles and Changes for Severe Conditions Under Consideration
The Timms review is also examining whether assessment intervals should be extended for some claimants. Pomfret explained that current review periods could move from an initial three-year cycle to five-year intervals afterward. She said the change appears likely to proceed, with more information expected during summer 2026.
The review additionally focuses on people living with long-term or worsening health conditions. Disability organizations have previously raised concerns about repeated assessments for people whose conditions are unlikely to improve.
According to comments shared during the BBC segment, the government is considering whether the existing 10-year review cycle for some severe conditions remains appropriate. Officials are also examining whether evidence from other public services could reduce the need for full PIP assessments in certain cases.
One proposal previously linked to future PIP reforms has already been abandoned. The so-called “four-point rule,” which would have required claimants to score at least four points in one daily living activity category to qualify for support, will no longer proceed. Pomfret said the measure had generated considerable criticism and confirmed it has been removed from the review process entirely. Any further changes emerging from the Timms review are expected to be announced in autumn 2026.
