The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has not confirmed whether Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants will continue to receive cash payments as the default option, following a written parliamentary question about the future of the disability benefit.
Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms responded to Labour MP Neil Duncan-Jordan, who asked whether cash would remain the default payment method for all PIP claimants after the Timms Review. The MP also asked for confirmation that any non-cash support alternatives would be voluntary.
No assurance in parliamentary answer
Sir Stephen did not provide either assurance in his response on October 29. He stated: "The Timms Review steering group is considering its recommendations ahead of the final report's publication in autumn. The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions will consider the findings before deciding any next steps."
The response means no decision on changing how PIP is provided was announced in the parliamentary answer. PIP is currently a cash benefit designed to help people with the additional costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability. Payments are generally made directly into a claimant's bank, building society or credit union account every four weeks.
Timms Review of PIP
The Timms Review was established to examine the PIP assessment and consider how the system could better support disabled people and those with long-term health conditions. The review involves disabled people and organisations representing them, alongside other stakeholders.
Its findings are expected to inform future government decisions about the disability benefit, although recommendations from the review would not automatically become government policy. The latest parliamentary response did not confirm any plans to replace cash payments with vouchers, equipment or other forms of support, nor did it rule out recommendations concerning alternative payment arrangements. Any proposals would need to be considered by the Work and Pensions Secretary before the UK Government decided whether to take further action.
PIP payments and eligibility
PIP has two components, daily living and mobility, with each paid at either a standard or enhanced rate depending on the claimant's assessed needs. People may qualify for one or both components. Eligibility is based on the impact of a health condition or disability on everyday activities and mobility, rather than a diagnosis alone.
In Scotland, PIP has been replaced for new applicants by Adult Disability Payment, administered by Social Security Scotland. Existing Scottish PIP claimants have been transferred to the devolved benefit. The Timms Review concerns the DWP's PIP system rather than Scotland's Adult Disability Payment. Full details about PIP eligibility and payments can be found on GOV.UK.
