The Department for Work and Pensions has received the interim Timms Review from Sir Stephen Timms, a Labour Party cabinet member conducting a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) review. The report, filed ahead of summer recess, urges the government to pursue root-and-branch reform of the assessment system rather than a harsh points-based approach.
PIP Caseload Hits 4 Million
The review, due this week, has found that disability benefits in England and Wales are “not fit for purpose,” according to The Guardian. PIP caseload figures have reached a staggering 4 million claimants.
Points-Based System Declared Worthless
The review will conclude that the points-based assessment system is worthless due to the rising number of new conditions that vary in severity. Speaking last month, Timms said: “PIP has a profound impact on people’s independent living, dignity, security, and daily lives – and this Review is an opportunity to help shape something better. We know that many people want to be involved in this process, but also that there is no single way to take part that will work for everyone.”
Dehumanising Assessments
The assessment process is dehumanising for disabled people, the review will find. Disability Rights UK stated that too many people experience assessments as “hostile, exhausting and disconnected from the reality of disabled people’s lives”. Timms added: “We also recognise that many people do not always engage with formal government channels, which is why the steering group has taken care to design an engagement programme that offers a variety of other ways to get involved.”
Assessment Process Hinders Employment
The review will find that the assessment process actively hinders people from seeking work. In a June co-chair update, Timms said: “We continue at pace with our work across the Review’s 6 strands of evidence-gathering and engagement, allowing disabled people and DDPOs the ability to provide contributions that can genuinely influence the future of PIP. Meanwhile, we look forward to publishing an interim report in the coming months which will provide a fuller update on the steering group’s work to date.”
Less Visible Conditions Overlooked
The points-based system has not kept pace with fluctuating and less visible conditions, the review will find. Timms noted: “As ever, we are deeply grateful for your continued engagement, support, and challenge, as we work to create a future PIP system that is fair and fit for all. Please, take this opportunity to get involved in the Review by hosting a workshop if you can – as this Review will only succeed if disabled people across the UK help to shape it.”
New System Required
The review will recommend a new system that “adequately reflects the diverse reality and needs of disabled people today”. When assessed for PIP, a health professional evaluates ability to carry out daily living and mobility activities, considering how much help is needed. The professional writes a report for the DWP.
Low Public Confidence
The report also cites low public confidence in the benefit. PIP consists of two parts: the daily living component and the mobility component, each paid at a standard or enhanced rate. If the DWP decision maker determines ability is limited, the standard rate applies; if severely limited, the enhanced rate applies.
