The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an urgent reminder that only 10 days remain for individuals to submit evidence to the Timms Review, which could determine the future of Personal Independence Payments (PIP). The call for evidence, launched by the review co-chaired by Sir Stephen Timms, aims to gather real-life experiences with the benefit to inform potential reforms.
Deadline and How to Submit
Evidence must be submitted by 11:59pm on May 28, 2026. The DWP posted a countdown on X, urging people to share their views. Sir Stephen stated: "We want to hear from anyone who has something to say about PIP." Submissions can be made online, via email, or by post, and the call for evidence is available in accessible formats including easy read, sign language, and Welsh on the Gov.uk website.
What Evidence is Accepted?
The review welcomes written submissions, existing data, unpublished analysis, or reports. Once the deadline passes, the steering group will review all submissions, and a summary will be published by the DWP to guide the next stage of the review.
Timeline and Purpose
The Timms Review is the first comprehensive assessment of PIP since its inception. It aims to ensure the benefit is "fair and fit for the future." The final report is due to be presented to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in autumn 2026. Sir Stephen emphasised the importance of hearing from those with firsthand experience, including disabled people, carers, and organisations supporting them.
Background on PIP
PIP was designed to help individuals with long-term disabilities or health conditions cover additional living costs and access support such as travel assistance. Recent DWP figures reveal that £28.5 billion was spent on PIP in the 2025/2026 year, with approximately 3.8 million claimants. Overpayments accounted for 2.3% of the benefit, up from 1.3% the previous year.
Evan John, policy adviser at the national disability charity Sense, commented: "Today's figures show that fraud is very uncommon amongst people claiming disability benefits, with the vast majority of funds being used as intended: offsetting the additional costs that come with being disabled, and enabling disabled people to afford the essentials. Benefits are an absolute lifeline for disabled people with complex needs. We're calling on the government to recognise how important disability benefits are for society, and commit to not making any further cuts to disability benefits during their time in government."
