The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has postponed proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) until a review of eligibility and assessment processes is completed later this year. Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, is leading the review alongside disabled groups and charities.
Latest figures show nearly 3.9 million claimants in England and Wales receive PIP, worth between £29.20 and £187.45 per week. Over 1.5 million (39%) have been given awards lasting five years or longer. More than 58% of claimants with visual conditions receive the highest monthly award of up to £749 for five years or more.
General musculoskeletal conditions, such as arthritis, and neurological conditions like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis also see high rates of long-term awards, with 50.8% and 49.5% respectively receiving five-year or longer grants. In Scotland, Adult Disability Payment (ADP) has replaced PIP, with similar eligibility criteria.
Award durations vary from nine months to ten years, based on individual circumstances. The DWP states that most claimants receive regular reviews, though limited-term awards of up to two years without review are granted where improvement is expected. Payments range from £29.20 to £187.45 per week, equating to up to £749.80 every four weeks.
