The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that recommendations for a major overhaul of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) will be delivered this month. The findings of the Timms Review could shape the future of the disability benefit, currently paid to 4.1 million people across England and Wales.
The review is examining whether PIP remains fit for purpose, including its eligibility criteria, assessment process, award reviews and the way decisions are made. It is the first comprehensive review of the benefit since it was introduced in 2013.
Review timetable confirmed
Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms confirmed the timetable in response to a written parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Steve Darling, who asked when the review would be published. Sir Stephen replied: "The Timms review will report its final recommendations in November 2026."
The confirmation follows the publication of emerging recommendations in September, which outlined potential improvements for existing claimants and people making new applications.
The Timms Review has been developed with disabled people, people with long-term health conditions, charities and other organisations. Its interim report, published in July, concluded that while PIP provides essential financial support, the current system is no longer fit for purpose.
PIP changes being considered
The emerging recommendations include reducing unnecessary award reviews for people with lifelong or degenerative conditions where no improvement is expected.
Other proposals include:
- Improving assessments for fluctuating conditions so decisions reflect how someone's needs change over time
- Making the PIP2 application form easier to complete, with clearer guidance about supporting evidence
- Introducing advocacy services for people who need help navigating the claims process
- Improving the use of medical evidence and increasing paper-based decisions where appropriate
- Using lessons from Mandatory Reconsiderations and tribunal appeals to improve the accuracy of decisions
- Reviewing the 28-day hospitalisation rule, which can affect PIP payments during extended hospital stays
- Developing an online portal for claimants while retaining alternatives for people unable to use digital services
The review is also considering more fundamental changes to the assessment system, including different pathways depending on a person's circumstances. This could involve a simpler initial assessment, faster decisions for people with well-evidenced serious conditions and more detailed assessments where additional information is needed.
Another proposal would allow relevant evidence already held by the DWP, NHS or social care services to be shared with the claimant's permission, reducing the need to repeatedly provide the same information.
Scope of the PIP review
The review is considering the role of PIP in helping disabled people meet additional living costs, maintain independence and participate in employment and everyday activities. Its terms of reference state PIP should remain a non-means-tested cash benefit available to eligible people whether they are working or not.
The emerging recommendations also suggest a future benefit could offer additional services and other forms of support alongside cash payments. However, any proposals must remain within the Office for Budget Responsibility's projected expenditure on PIP.
The review's steering group has been testing its proposals through workshops and discussions with disabled people and organisations representing them before finalising its recommendations. The UK Government will consider the findings before deciding which reforms to introduce. No changes arising from the review have been approved, and existing PIP eligibility and assessment rules remain in place.
