Anxiety and depression are reportedly the two conditions most likely to be cut from Personal Independence Payments (PIP), following proposals and reviews that could make it harder for people with these conditions to claim the benefit.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) pays the tax-free, non-means-tested benefit to help adults with the extra costs of living with a long-term illness or disability. The future of PIP, which is worth up to £194.60 a week and paid to over four million Brits, will depend on which party's plans are put into action.
PIP system 'not fit for purpose'
Data shows that claims have soared in recent years, which has led to a rethink over who should get the money. As reported by Birmingham Live, an interim report published by Disability Minister Sir Stephen Timms revealed that the current PIP system is "not fit for purpose".
While the Labour Party aims to change the system by making it fairer and more competitive, Reform UK proposed scrapping PIP and replacing it with a Health Security Allowance where people with anxiety, depression and ADHD would no longer receive cash payments.
Sharp rise in mental health claims
The statistics show that mental health-related claims have sent the PIP bill spiralling in recent years. The interim review document said: "All conditions groups have shown some increase over time with the exception of all other psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions group; however, the extent of increase varies across conditions.
"Anxiety and depression show the most significant increase, rising sharply from 5.9 in 2020 to 8.1 per cent in 2025."
Existing claimants could lose money
It's possible existing claimants could lose money. They may also be denied PIP when it is time for their cases to be reassessed. It's reported that around 360,000 people claim PIP for anxiety and depressive disorders, with the figure surging this decade much faster than for other conditions.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham previously acknowledged the welfare bill needs to come down.
What is PIP?
PIP is a government benefit designed to help with the extra costs of living with a long-term illness, disability or mental health condition. It is available to people aged 16 to the State Pension age and is entirely tax-free and non-means-tested, meaning you can claim it regardless of income and savings.
To successfully apply, your condition must mean you have struggled with everyday tasks or moving around for at least three months, and you must expect these difficulties to continue for at least another nine months. The benefit is split into a Daily Living component (for help with everyday tasks) and a Mobility component (for help with moving around). The weekly rates are:
- Daily Living: Standard rate – £76.70 / Enhanced rate – £114.60
- Mobility: Standard rate – £30.30 / Enhanced rate – £80
