Benefit claimants face the risk of falling into poverty due to unacceptable delays by the government, according to a group of MPs. The Public Accounts Committee’s recent report highlighted that some individuals are waiting for more than a year for their Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims to be processed.
Released today, the report reveals that only 51% of PIP claims were dealt with within 75 working days during the 2024-25 period, falling short of the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) target of 75%. The committee criticized the prolonged waiting times, stating that it could lead claimants into debt and poverty, emphasizing that the Department lacks a sufficient short-term plan to address this issue.
Members of the Committee shared instances of constituents waiting excessively long periods, with some waiting over a year for their claims to be processed. The DWP acknowledged the situation despite it not being reflected in their official statistics.
Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, expressed disappointment in the DWP’s service towards disability claimants, noting a consistent poor performance. He criticized the delayed improvements promised by the Department, stating that constituents are at risk of financial hardship due to the unresponsiveness of the DWP.
One of the Committee’s recommendations urges the DWP to provide more extensive data on waiting times, including the longest wait recorded in 2024/25. PIP is a crucial disability benefit that aids individuals in covering additional living expenses, whether they are employed or not.
Last summer, the Labour party’s opposition led to the government abandoning plans to restrict PIP eligibility, prompting a review led by DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms. The review’s findings are anticipated in the autumn.
Responding to the concerns raised, a DWP spokeswoman emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance the welfare system and support claimants in transitioning to stable employment. The Department highlighted the redeployment of work coaches to assist sick or disabled individuals, alongside significant employment reforms. The DWP assured that PIP award decisions are made promptly, with the Timms Review aimed at ensuring the fairness and efficiency of the benefit in the future.