The Timms Review, tasked with evaluating Personal Independence Payment (PIP) reform, has issued a major update on Monday, detailing progress and launching a new engagement tool. The review, co-chaired by Dr. Clenton Farquharson CBE, Sharon Brennan, and Rt Hon. Sir Stephen Timms MP, aims to reshape PIP after previous government proposals to cut the benefit were shelved due to backbench Labour opposition.
Call for Evidence Receives Over 38,000 Responses
In a statement, the co-chairs revealed that the Call for Evidence, open for 10 weeks, garnered more than 38,000 responses from individuals and organizations. “The fact that so many people took the time to respond highlights the important role PIP plays in supporting disabled people,” they said. This overwhelming response underscores the public’s interest in improving the benefit system.
Workshop in a Box Launched for Community Engagement
The review has launched a “Workshop in a Box,” available on the Timms Review collection page on GOV.UK. This tool, previously used by NHS England for the 10-Year Health Plan, is designed to help organizations facilitate conversations about PIP. It aims to gather qualitative evidence from disabled people and those with long-term health conditions on key themes of the review, forming a core part of the co-production process.
The co-chairs emphasized the importance of community involvement: “This Review will only succeed if disabled people across the UK help to shape it. With your help, we can make sure PIP truly meets the needs of those it is intended to serve.”
Background: Proposed Changes and Estimated Impact
The previous government had proposed introducing a minimum threshold of four points in at least one daily living activity for PIP eligibility, which would have saved an estimated £4.5 billion per year by 2029/30. This change would have resulted in around 800,000 people no longer receiving the daily living component compared to current rules. However, these plans were put on hold following backlash from Labour backbenchers and disability rights groups.
Meanwhile, Universal Credit saw its Limited Capacity for Work Related Activity (LCWRA) element halved for new claimants from April 2026, dropping from £432.37 to £217.26 per month, a reduction of £2,580 annually. Existing claimants remain protected.
Next Steps for the Timms Review
The review is now focused on gathering qualitative evidence through workshops across the UK. The co-chairs expressed gratitude for continued engagement and urged organizations to host workshops to ensure the review reflects disabled people’s experiences. The final recommendations are expected to shape a fairer PIP system for the future.
