The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants attending Timms Review workshops in September will have two types of expenses reimbursed: reasonable travel costs and other necessary expenses, such as the cost of a personal assistant. The confirmation comes as the DWP opens places for 15 workshops aimed at shaping the final recommendations of the review.
Workshops to Shape Timms Review
The Timms Review, conducted under the Labour government, aims to make disability and incapacity benefits fairer for claimants and taxpayers. An interim report has already been filed, and the September workshops will allow claimants to provide feedback on its recommendations. Claimants are urged to register their interest promptly as places are now open.
The DWP stated that claimants attending in a personal capacity will have their reasonable travel costs and other necessary expenses reimbursed. In a statement, the DWP said: "We will provide you with more information if you are invited to a workshop." The department also clarified that any payments received are subject to tax and National Insurance contributions, and claimants are responsible for disclosing payments to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
Tax and Benefit Implications
The DWP noted that these payments will not be pensionable. Claimants receiving benefits are advised to inform their work coach or local Jobcentre before taking part. If unsure whether participation may affect their claim, claimants should seek advice from the office that administers their benefit. Universal Credit claimants can do this through their online journal.
The benefits team added: "Once you have been selected for this workshop, we can provide you with a letter detailing your participation in the workshop to support this conversation." Claimants can register their interest using the online 'about you' form, and responses in alternative formats can be emailed to timmsreview.shapingrecommendations@dwp.gov.uk.
Next Steps for Claimants
The DWP has not specified the exact dates or locations of the 15 workshops, but further information will be provided to those invited. Claimants are encouraged to act now to secure a place. The review's final recommendations are expected to influence future changes to PIP, and the workshops are a key opportunity for claimants to have their voices heard.
