The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that no changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) will be implemented until a comprehensive review of the disability benefit is completed, expected by next autumn. The review will be led by Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, and will involve input from disabled people, organisations, experts, and other stakeholders.
Sir Stephen's remarks came in response to a written question from Conservative MP Blake Stephenson, who inquired about the potential financial impact of the Personal Independence Payments Bill. The minister stated that Clause 5 of the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill, which would have required claimants to score at least four points in one daily living activity to qualify for the daily living component, has been removed from the Bill in Committee due to concerns raised.
Sir Stephen emphasised that any future changes to PIP eligibility will follow the comprehensive review, which aims to ensure the assessment is fair and fit for the future. He added that the DWP is committed to working closely with devolved governments throughout the process, and has already engaged with disability stakeholders from Scotland to incorporate devolved perspectives.
