The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has been urged to scrap an 'arbitrary' 20-metre rule that determines eligibility for higher-rate mobility support under Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The call comes from the MS Society, which argues that the current rule creates a harsh cutoff that fails to reflect real-life needs.
What is the 20-Metre Rule?
The 20-metre rule means that claimants only qualify for the enhanced mobility component of PIP if they cannot walk 20 metres without assistance. Ross Barrett of the MS Society explained that if someone can walk just one step beyond that distance—roughly the length of two double-decker buses—they are excluded from the higher rate. 'This rule shuts people out of mobility support even when their mobility is severely compromised,' he said. 'It is a punitive cliff edge that does not reflect real life, as almost no one lives just 20 metres away from their nearest bus stop or local shop.'
Proposed Changes
Instead of a fixed-distance test, Barrett argues that assessments should focus on a person's ability to perform essential daily tasks, such as walking to local amenities, and should account for fluctuations in mobility over time. The Labour government is currently overseeing the Timms Review, which is examining potential reforms to PIP. Co-chair Sharon Brennan emphasised the importance of hearing from a wide range of voices, particularly those from marginalised communities. 'We hope this new engagement method allows people to have conversations that matter with the organisations they trust,' she said.
New Workshops
The DWP has launched a series of workshops open to Deaf and Disabled People's Organisations (DDPOs), disability charities, community groups, and elected representatives. Organisations can attend information sessions on 10 and 16 June to learn how to conduct a 'workshop in a box,' with materials available on the Timms Review webpage. Insights must be submitted by 17 July to directly inform the steering group's recommendations.
