Personal Independent Payment (PIP) applicants are facing significant delays of up to 50 weeks before undergoing assessments, according to a recent alert from a prominent think tank. Ruth Curtice, the head of the Resolution Foundation think tank, raised concerns during a session with the work and pensions select committee.
PIP is a disability benefit provided to individuals requiring assistance with daily activities due to health conditions. Recent discussions have revolved around potential modifications to the assessment criteria for this benefit, particularly following proposed changes by the Labour party.
During the committee meeting, Ms. Curtice highlighted the extended waiting period for PIP assessments, emphasizing that claimants experience nearly a year-long delay from the scheduled assessment date. She pointed out flaws in the system affecting both the government’s ability to manage the process effectively and the hardships faced by claimants due to delays.
Regarding the slowdown in assessment processes, it appears to be linked to reduced assessment frequencies and support availability within job centers. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesperson disputed these claims, stating that the current average clearance time for a PIP decision is 16 weeks, with new claimants waiting around nine weeks for assessments.
The DWP official emphasized the agency’s commitment to promptly delivering entitled benefits, mentioning additional staff recruitment and expedited procedures for terminally ill individuals to receive accelerated PIP awards. In cases where issues arise, investigations are conducted to identify and rectify any shortcomings.
PIP consists of two components – a daily living rate and a mobility rate – with claimants eligible for one or both elements based on specified criteria. Proposed changes by the Labour party could potentially alter the eligibility criteria for the daily living part of PIP from November 2026, requiring a minimum point threshold in certain activities.
While the point system for the mobility component remains unchanged, individuals nearing the end of their life will continue to access PIP without alterations to their claims process. Specifically, those with a life expectancy of 12 months or less can swiftly access the enhanced daily living component of PIP.
Overall, the challenges faced by PIP claimants due to assessment delays underscore the importance of streamlining processes to ensure timely and efficient delivery of crucial benefits to those in need.