The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a significant update concerning potential changes to the mobility element of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), confirming that no alterations will be made until a major review is complete.
Parliamentary Questions Prompt Review Clarity
This development follows questions raised in the House of Commons by Rachael Maskell, the Independent MP for York Central. She directly asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions about the steps being taken with the Chancellor to co-produce policy changes concerning mobility allowances.
The response came from Sir Stephen Timms, the Labour MP for East Ham. He stated clearly that the PIP mobility element is within the scope of the ongoing Timms Review. The central aim of this review is to ensure that the PIP system is both fair and fit for the future.
Co-Production and Lived Experience at the Heart of the Process
Sir Stephen emphasised the government's commitment to an inclusive process. "We will co-produce the Review with disabled people, and their organisations to ensure lived experience is at the heart of its work," he told the Commons. He added that an update would be provided shortly.
Most importantly, he gave a firm assurance: "We will not make changes to PIP eligibility, including for the mobility element, until the Review has concluded." This statement offers temporary certainty to current PIP claimants.
Charities Welcome Co-Production Pledge
The commitment to co-production has been strongly welcomed by a coalition of charities and organisations, including Turn2us. In a joint letter, the groups praised the government's recognition of the importance of lived experience in policy development.
The letter stated that co-production leads to more effective, just, and workable policies, especially for disabled people and those in poverty who are often excluded from decisions affecting their lives.
However, the organisations also outlined what genuine co-production entails. They stressed it must go beyond simple consultation, meaning "working with disabled people and their organisations in shaping the scope, process and outcomes of the review." It values people not just as service users but as experts in their own experience, capable of helping design real-world solutions.
This approach, they argue, could set a new standard for how the DWP develops policy in the future.
