The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has extended an important deadline, providing an opportunity for individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions to apply for the Independent Disability Advisory Panel. This extension aims to ensure broader participation in the panel, which will help shape future policies affecting these communities.
According to DevonLive, the DWP is looking for applicants who can provide insight and feedback, directly influencing government policy and strategy. The panel will consist of individuals who can offer diverse perspectives, ensuring the department better understands the needs of people living with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
Extended Deadline and Increased Opportunity
The DWP has confirmed that the deadline for applications has been extended until October 13, 2025, giving more time for individuals to apply. Originally, the deadline was fast approaching, but the department decided to offer a longer window for applications to ensure that a diverse group of participants could be considered.
The panel is seeking 10 members who are deaf, disabled, or living with a long-term health condition. These individuals will help the DWP in its mission to directly inform and guide government policy, a task that the department views as critical in creating inclusive, effective strategies.
As stated by the DWP on X (formerly Twitter),
We promised to listen and we have. To ensure secure and open conversations that are comfortable for all, we’ll work with our Independent Disability Advisory Panel to shape their confidentiality agreements. The deadline for applying has been extended to 13 October 2025.
This extended period is intended to ensure that more voices can be heard and taken into account during the advisory process.
What Does Being on the Panel Involve?
If selected, members of the panel will attend monthly workshops to collaborate with DWP policy teams. During these workshops, panel members will provide direct feedback and help shape the design and development of policies and strategies.
Additionally, panel members will review and advise on key documents related to how the DWP communicates and publishes its policies. This process ensures that policies are more reflective of the lived experiences of people who are deaf, disabled, or living with long-term health conditions.
The role also includes providing ongoing feedback on DWP communications and guidance documents. By having people with real-world experience of these challenges involved in the decision-making process, the DWP aims to ensure that policies are both practical and inclusive.
The commitment to this role is initially set to last until March 31, 2026, but there is the possibility of an extension if necessary, depending on the needs of the department.
Compensation and Benefits for Panel Members
Members of the panel will receive a daily fee of £200 for up to 1.5 days of work per month. This ensures fair compensation for the time and expertise offered by the panel members. However, it’s important to note that this payment is subject to standard PAYE income tax rates, which may affect any other income or benefits participants are receiving.
In addition to the daily fee, panel members will be reimbursed for reasonable travel expenses, including accommodation if necessary. This makes it easier for individuals across the country to participate, regardless of their location. The reimbursement policy ensures that all panel members can contribute without bearing the financial burden of travel.
How to Apply
Those interested in joining the panel must complete an expression of interest form, which can be found online. Along with the form, applicants are required to submit a CV detailing their employment and educational background, although this will not be part of the assessment process. The focus is on the following two 500-word statements:
- A statement outlining how your experience is relevant to the essential criteria.
- A statement explaining why you are interested in joining the panel and how you can contribute.
Applicants will also need to complete a diversity monitoring form and provide their personal details.
For those who are selected, this is a significant opportunity to influence the policies that directly affect millions of individuals. By contributing to the panel, you will help ensure that the voices of people living with disabilities and long-term health conditions are not just heard but are actively shaping the future of government policies.
