The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is changing its Personal Independence Payment (PIP) review system from this April, extending award durations for new claimants to help reduce the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) backlog.
The policy shift aims to free up healthcare professionals to conduct more face-to-face assessments and complete more WCA reassessments, addressing a growing backlog in the system.
Under the changes, new PIP claimants will receive longer award periods before their first review, reducing the frequency of reassessments and allowing DWP staff to focus on other priority cases.
The DWP confirmed the move is part of ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency and fairness of the benefits system, ensuring that those who need support receive it without unnecessary delays.
