The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has not confirmed that Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants will continue to receive the disability benefit in cash following the Timms Review, responding to a written parliamentary question without offering either assurance sought by the MP.
Minister declines to confirm cash remains default
Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, addressed a written parliamentary question from Labour MP Neil Duncan-Jordan, who asked whether cash would remain the default payment method for all PIP claimants after the review. The MP also requested confirmation that any alternative forms of non-cash support would be provided on a voluntary basis.
In his response on October 29, Sir Stephen stated: "The Timms Review steering group is considering its recommendations ahead of the final report's publication in autumn." He added that the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions will consider the findings before deciding any next steps.
PIP remains a cash benefit for now
PIP is currently a cash benefit intended to assist people with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability. Payments are typically made directly into a claimant's bank, building society or credit union account every four weeks. The benefit is not means-tested, meaning eligibility is not determined by a person's income or savings, and people can receive PIP while working.
The Timms Review was set up to scrutinise the PIP assessment process and explore how the system could more effectively support disabled people and those with long-term health conditions. It brings together disabled people and organisations representing them, along with other key stakeholders. Its conclusions are anticipated to shape future government decisions, though any recommendations would not automatically be adopted as government policy.
PIP components and assessment
PIP comprises two components, daily living and mobility, each paid at a standard or enhanced rate depending on the claimant's assessed requirements. Claimants may qualify for one or both components. Eligibility is determined by the impact of a health condition or disability on day-to-day activities and mobility, rather than solely on a diagnosis.
The daily living component may be available to those who need help with preparing food, eating and drinking, managing medicines or treatments, washing and bathing, using the toilet, dressing and undressing, reading, managing money, socialising, and talking, listening and understanding. The mobility part may be available to those who need help working out a route and following it, physically moving around, or leaving home.
Guidance on GOV.UK adds: "You do not have to have a physical disability to get the mobility part. You might also be eligible if you have difficulty getting around because of a cognitive or mental health condition, like anxiety."
The DWP will evaluate how challenging claimants find daily living and mobility tasks, examining whether they can do them safely, how long they take, how often the condition affects the activity, and whether help is needed from a person or using extra equipment. New claims can be submitted by contacting the DWP, with all required information available on the GOV.UK website.
