The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a public warning to all 3.9 million Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants, urging them to participate in the Timms Review before the deadline approaches. The DWP is actively encouraging claimants to come forward and have their say as the May 28, 2026 cutoff draws near.
Timms Review Background
Established by the DWP and the Labour government, the Timms Review aims to address the rising welfare bill. The review is led by Labour minister Sir Stephen Timms and seeks to ensure PIP remains fair and suitable for a changing world. The DWP emphasized on X (formerly Twitter) that there are only 10 days left for claimants to share their views with the steering group.
The Call for Evidence closes on May 28, 2026, and all 3.9 million PIP claimants are welcome to provide feedback. The review's goal is to help disabled people achieve better health, higher living standards, and greater independence, including through employment.
Review Details and Public Reaction
The DWP states that PIP supports many individuals with extra costs from disabilities or long-term health conditions. The government is committed to keeping it as a non-means-tested cash benefit for people both in and out of work. However, PIP has never been fully reviewed despite changing trends in disability and society.
The review will be co-produced with disabled people, organizations, carers, clinicians, experts, MPs, and other stakeholders. It is co-chaired by Sir Stephen Timms, Sharron Brennan, and Dr. Clenton Farquharson CBE. Findings are expected in autumn 2026 before any changes are implemented.
Public response has been mixed, with some claimants expressing skepticism. One commented, "It's a sham because you hate disabled people," while another wrote, "This is a sham the outcome has already been decided." A third user stated, "You'll ignore the submissions and do the cuts you already planned; it's a farce review." Others highlighted accessibility issues, noting the lack of reasonable adjustments for those with communication barriers.
Another claimant remarked, "There was no need to mess up PIP in the first place. As for the dire welfare bill, it's caused humiliation and an increase in hate abuse towards disabled people." The DWP continues to urge participation despite the criticism.
