The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a new update on the future of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) mobility criteria as the Timms Review approaches its final stages. Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms has confirmed that recommendations are still being considered and no final decisions have been made.
The update follows concerns raised in a written question from Labour MP Neil Duncan-Jordan about the absence of an “explicit reference” to mobility criteria in the draft recommendations and principles of the Timms Review. The review is examining the future of PIP and is expected to submit its final recommendations to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, later this autumn.
Response to concerns over mobility criteria
The Poole MP asked the DWP what assessment it was making of PIP mobility criteria following their omission from the emerging recommendations. In his written response published on October 23, Sir Stephen said: “The emerging recommendations of the Timms Review are not the final recommendations of the Review and are currently being considered by the Review’s steering group ahead of it publishing its final report.”
He added: “The review will report to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions with its final recommendations in late autumn 2026, and the findings will be considered before any next steps are decided.” The response does not confirm whether changes to mobility criteria will be included in the final recommendations, nor does it announce any immediate changes to PIP eligibility, assessment rules or payment rates.
Possible changes to PIP assessments
Mr Duncan-Jordan also submitted a separate parliamentary question asking how the draft recommendations and principles could lead to changes in the way PIP assessments are carried out. His question specifically referred to assessment criteria, guidance and training for assessors, and the PIP application form.
In a second written response, Sir Stephen said: “The Timms Review will report its final recommendations to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in late autumn.” He added: “It will then be for the Secretary of State to consider the findings, before deciding any changes.” This means the review's emerging proposals should not be treated as confirmed changes to the benefit. Any decisions about changing assessment criteria, guidance or application procedures will follow consideration of the final recommendations.
Current PIP mobility criteria
PIP is made up of two components, daily living and mobility, which are assessed separately. The mobility component considers difficulties with planning and following journeys, as well as moving around. People can qualify for the standard or enhanced rate depending on the number of points awarded under the relevant assessment criteria.
A claimant generally needs eight to 11 points for the standard mobility rate or at least 12 points for the enhanced rate. The current rules remain in place while the Timms Review continues. People can find information about PIP eligibility and the assessment process on GOV.UK.
PIP has been replaced by Adult Disability Payment (ADP) for people living in Scotland. ADP is administered by Social Security Scotland and has separate application, decision-making and review arrangements. The Timms Review only relates to PIP; any changes to ADP would be made by the Scottish Government.
