No changes for current recipients of disability benefits as government delays new rules until after a full review. Ministers affirm protection of support services amid rising concerns over welfare reform impact.
The UK government has confirmed that individuals currently receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and associated benefits such as the Blue Badge and free bus travel will not be affected by upcoming welfare reforms.
This assurance, delivered by Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall during a statement to Parliament on 30 June, comes after months of uncertainty for millions relying on disability support. The changes, now postponed until November 2026, will only apply to new claimants after a formal review of the assessment process is concluded.
Current PIP Claimants Remain Unaffected by Reform
According to the Daily Record, Ms Kendall clarified that existing PIP recipients will not see any alterations to their current entitlements. “It will not be affected even if they have a reassessment, and neither will all the passported benefits,” she told MPs.
These passported benefits include schemes such as Carer’s Allowance, the Blue Badge, and other forms of local authority assistance linked to PIP eligibility.
This reassurance comes in response to concerns raised in Parliament, including from Labour MP Dr Lauren Sullivan, who questioned whether changes to eligibility might indirectly limit access to crucial mobility and support schemes.
Ms Kendall reiterated that the protection of these benefits forms part of the government’s commitment to ensuring continuity for the 3.7 million people currently receiving PIP payments of up to £749.80 per month.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has moved to underline that the new criteria, including a controversial four-point eligibility requirement, will not impact anyone currently receiving benefits. Instead, they will apply solely to new applicants starting late 2026.
Revised Timetable Hinges on Disability Sector Consultation
The changes to PIP will now follow the conclusion of a comprehensive review, currently led by Sir Stephen Timms in collaboration with disability organisations and charities. The purpose of the review is to evaluate the current system’s effectiveness and ensure that any future modifications reflect the lived experiences of disabled individuals.
According to the Mirror, the review is scheduled to be completed by autumn 2026, with the government pledging that no reforms will be enacted before that date.
Campaigners have welcomed the delay but remain cautious, warning that tightening eligibility could pose long-term risks for new claimants who depend on these services for independence and daily mobility.
Critics of the original reform plans argued that imposing stricter criteria could disproportionately impact those with non-visible or fluctuating conditions, potentially excluding them from vital support systems.
