Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments could be scrapped rather than made tougher for millions of claimants, according to a forthcoming review by disability minister Stephen Timms. The Labour cabinet member is expected to recommend a 'radical' and 'bold' overhaul of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) system, deeming it 'not fit for purpose'.
Review Calls Current Points System 'Worthless'
The Mail Online reports that Timms' review will conclude that the current points-based assessment system is effectively worthless. This is due to the rising number of new conditions—particularly mental health issues—that can fluctuate considerably in severity. PIP uses a points system where claimants score points based on their ability to perform daily activities. For example, needing help to wash hair earns 2 points, while needing help to get into a shower or bath earns 3 points. Claimants only score the highest points from each activity.
Mental Health Conditions Not Excluded
Timms appeared to rule out cuts to PIP for people with mental health conditions, stating that the review has not so far 'looked at changing eligibility on the basis of a diagnosis'. The review will reportedly highlight that the points-based system has not kept pace with fluctuating and less visible conditions, including physical conditions like cystic fibrosis and arthritis, as well as mental health conditions. The impact of mental health conditions or medication side effects should also be considered, such as needing prompting or encouragement to wash.
Andy Burnham Advocates Education Reform
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham suggested that the welfare bill should be reduced by 'rethinking the education system' and supporting young people into work, rather than through 'crude cuts'. His comments align with the review's emphasis on a more supportive approach.
Radical and Bold Recommendations Expected
The review is expected to call for a new system that 'adequately reflects the diverse reality and needs of disabled people today'. A statement from the review reportedly says: 'Our message is simple: PIP is not working. It is not working for the people that go through the process, nor for a Government committed to supporting disabled people. We are committed to making changes so that PIP can fulfil its purpose for disabled people and those with long-term conditions, both now and into the future. Doing so will require us to be radical in our thinking and bold in our recommendations for reform.'
Impact on Millions of Claimants
The overhaul could affect millions of PIP claimants across the UK. The current system has been criticised for being inflexible and failing to account for the fluctuating nature of many conditions. The proposed changes aim to create a more responsive and fair assessment process.
