Recent government proposals to reform Personal Independence Payments (PIP) may have far-reaching effects beyond those directly receiving the benefit.
The planned PIP changes are designed to narrow eligibility, but critics warn they could unintentionally destabilize a broader network of support programs. Among the most affected are unpaid carers, many of whom rely on DWP benefits indirectly tied to PIP eligibility.
According to analysis reported by Devon Live, these policy shifts risk undermining access to Carer’s Allowance for tens of thousands of individuals. Carers UK cautions that such a ripple effect could leave many without vital financial assistance.
Proposed PIP Changes Could Indirectly Remove Carer’s Allowance
The planned PIP changes, scheduled for implementation in November 2026, will tighten eligibility criteria. This move could disqualify thousands of current recipients.
Because eligibility for Carer’s Allowance depends on the person being cared for receiving a qualifying DWP benefit, such as PIP, the effects may extend to carers as well.
The list of qualifying DWP benefits includes:
- PIP (Personal Independence Payment)
- Disability Living Allowance
- Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Pension Age Disability Payment
- Child Disability Payment
If a person only claims PIP and loses it under the new rules, their carer automatically becomes ineligible for Carer’s Allowance. Carers UK estimates that 150,000 carers could lose this benefit by 2029/2030 as a direct consequence of the PIP changes.
Burden of Care Remains High as Financial Support Weakens
Carer’s Allowance provides a modest £83.80 per week, which Carers UK notes “remains the lowest benefit of its kind”. Eligibility requirements stipulate that carers must:
- Spend at least 35 hours per week providing care
- Earn no more than £196 per week from other work
This earnings limit was increased from £151 per week, a change introduced in the 2024 Autumn Budget. However, the broader eligibility remains dependent on the person cared for receiving specific DWP benefits, which remain at risk due to upcoming PIP changes.
The type of care qualifying for Carer’s Allowance includes help with cooking, washing, attending medical appointments, and managing household bills—tasks often performed daily and without compensation.
Charities Call for Comprehensive Policy Review
In a direct statement, Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, highlighted the contradiction in recent government policy:
Unfortunately, we are looking at a game of two halves.
Last year in the 2024 Autumn Budget we welcomed news that the limit on Carer’s Allowance would rise, which is a much-needed step forward, helping carers in employment on a low income to increase their earning potential.
But these changes now take place against the concerning backdrop of new welfare reforms announced in the 2025 Spring Statement.
The charity warns that even this slight progress on income limits could be undermined by structural loss of access to DWP benefits, especially if PIP changes proceed without a system of linked protections for carers.
