Labour MP Stephen Timms has called for an urgent review of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system, highlighting widespread concerns over lengthy delays and unfair rejections. The Chair of the Work and Pensions Committee warned that vulnerable claimants are being left in financial limbo due to inefficient assessments and bureaucratic hurdles.
Growing Backlog and Delays
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is facing mounting criticism as PIP assessment waiting times soar. Recent figures reveal that some claimants wait over six months for a decision, with many forced to rely on food banks and emergency support during the delay.
Unfair Assessments Under Scrutiny
Timms raised alarm over inconsistent assessment criteria, where individuals with severe conditions are frequently denied support. "The current system is failing those who need it most," he stated, citing cases of terminally ill patients being rejected after flawed evaluations.
Key Demands from Labour:
- Immediate reduction in processing times
- Independent review of assessment criteria
- Mandatory specialist input for complex cases
- Clearer appeal guidance for rejected claimants
With over 2.6 million PIP claimants in the UK, the proposed reforms could significantly impact Britain's welfare landscape. The DWP has acknowledged the concerns but maintains that improvements are already underway.
