In the UK, over 1.6 million individuals receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP) have been granted long-term awards lasting five years or more, according to the latest Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) statistics.
The DWP also revealed that proposed reforms to PIP eligibility, set to come into effect in November 2026, will impact both new and existing claimants, with adjustments occurring during their next scheduled review.
As of January 2025, PIP continues to support a growing number of claimants with long-term health conditions, disabilities, and illnesses. The government’s announcement on upcoming changes has sparked interest, particularly as long-term recipients remain a significant portion of the claimant base.
Long-Term Awards for Major Health Conditions
The DWP’s data indicates that a substantial number of claimants, approximately 44% of the total 3.7 million, have received PIP awards lasting five years or more. Among these, individuals with visual diseases represent the highest percentage, with over 65% receiving long-term awards.
Musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis and joint pain also see significant representation, with 50.8% of claimants in this category being awarded long-term PIP. Additionally, claimants suffering from neurological conditions, including multiple sclerosis and epilepsy, are awarded long-term benefits at a rate of 49.5%.
The government’s approach to PIP eligibility, as outlined in the PIP Handbook, focuses on the level of support a person requires in their daily life due to their health condition or disability.
Impact of future PIP reforms
The upcoming reforms to PIP eligibility are set to impact all new claimants and those who are already receiving PIP, but only after their next scheduled review. The changes will affect the assessment processes, which are intended to make the system more efficient and ensure claimants are receiving the correct level of support based on their needs.
The reforms are due to be implemented in November 2026, and the DWP has made it clear that these will not immediately affect claimants who are currently in the system. Instead, the adjustments will take place during the claimant’s next scheduled review, ensuring that the system adapts over time without causing immediate disruption.
Importantly, the DWP also clarified that claimants with ongoing awards may not be required to undergo face-to-face assessments, depending on their specific circumstances. Those expected to experience improvement in their health could receive fixed-term awards without the need for additional reviews.
These long-term PIP awards provide essential support to millions of individuals who depend on this financial assistance to manage their health conditions. As the DWP moves forward with reforms, it is crucial to monitor how these changes will affect both new and existing claimants, ensuring that the system remains accessible and fair to all those in need.
