The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed it will not change the 28-day rule for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for hospital inpatients, following a parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat MP Manuela Perteghella.
MP Calls for Review of 28-Day Rule
In a written question, Perteghella, MP for Stratford-on-Avon, asked the DWP to review the rules that suspend PIP after 28 days in hospital. She also requested provisions for discretion when a stay is prolonged due to discharge delays and the claimant continues to incur disability-related expenses.
PIP is a disability benefit that helps with extra costs from long-term disability, ill-health, or terminal illness. It supports daily living tasks and aims to help people maintain independence at home.
Government Response: No Change
Social Security and Disability Minister Sir Stephen Timms responded on behalf of the DWP. He stated that for adults aged 18 or over maintained free of charge as NHS inpatients, PIP payment (but not entitlement) ceases after 28 days.
Sir Stephen explained: "This is on the basis that the NHS is responsible for not only the person’s medical care but also the entirety of their disability-related extra costs and to pay PIP in addition would be a duplication of public funds intended for the same purpose."
He added that PIP payment recommences from the date of discharge, calling these "statutory arrangements, common to the extra costs benefits."
How PIP Works
PIP has two components: daily living and mobility. The daily living component standard rate is £76.55 per week, with an enhanced rate of £114.80. The mobility component base rate is £30.20, with an increased level of £80.10. Eligible claimants can receive up to £187 per week (£748 per month).
PIP is not means-tested and does not require National Insurance contributions. Claimants can be employed, have savings, or receive other benefits and still qualify. The DWP assesses how difficult claimants find daily living and mobility tasks most of the time over a 12-month period.
