{"id":120678,"date":"2026-05-20T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-05-20T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/en.econostrum.info\/uk\/?p=120678"},"modified":"2026-05-20T02:00:46","modified_gmt":"2026-05-20T01:00:46","slug":"dwp-plans-major-pip-overhaul","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/en.econostrum.info\/uk\/dwp-plans-major-pip-overhaul\/","title":{"rendered":"DWP Plans Major PIP Overhaul as New Review Rules Near Deadline"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed there are 10 days<\/strong> 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<\/strong>, is examining how the UK\u2019s main disability benefit operates and whether significant reforms should be introduced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The review could affect around 3.9 million<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to the review documents cited by the DWP, the number of working-age people receiving PIP increased from two million<\/strong> in 2019 to around three million within five years, while annual spending rose from \u00a311 billion<\/strong> to \u00a322 billion over the same period. The department said on X that the call for evidence will close on May 28,<\/strong> 2026, with findings expected to be reported later this year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Review Examines Assessments, NHS Evidence Sharing, and Recording Procedures<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Financial expert Laura Pomfret<\/a> 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 <\/strong>for PIP from 6% to 30%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The same increase is being considered for Work Capability Assessments, which are separate from PIP. Pomfret noted that home visits and alternative arrangements <\/strong>would still be available for people unable to attend assessments in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/strong> around 2027 or 2028.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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 <\/strong>of recordings if they choose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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There are 10 days left to share your views with the Timms Review steering group on the future of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

The Call for Evidence closes on 28 May 2026

Take part https:\/\/t.co\/yoLb2HNSuN<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/dmipdXLnCB<\/a><\/p>— Department for Work and Pensions (@DWPgovuk) May 18, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>