Reform UK has proposed scrapping Personal Independence Payments (PIP) for a number of conditions, a move that could see around 1.5 million people lose their disability benefits if the measures come into force. The party, which has consistently led in the polls over the last 18 months, is seeking to become the next government and is pushing a radical overhaul of disability benefits to cut the welfare bill.
Details of the proposed PIP changes
Under the plans, Reform UK would scrap PIP, currently paid to over four million Brits, and replace it with a new benefit. However, this new benefit would only be handed to the "gravely ill and severely challenged". A party document states that only the most "severe, enduring and high-risk cases" would get payments.
The proposals appear to target conditions such as those which are mental health-related, including depression, anxiety, and ADHD. These claims, predominantly among younger adults, have been largely responsible for the ballooning disability benefits bill post-Covid, according to the party. Support for others could come from local councils.
Criticism of the current PIP system
The plans follow criticism of the existing PIP system and claims that it has become too easy for people with mental health-related conditions to claim money. Claims for these conditions have more than doubled over the last six years. Reform's Treasury spokesperson Robert Jenrick claimed the amount spent on disability benefits was "not generosity … it is suicidal empathy".
Current government review of PIP
Under the current Labour Government, a review of PIP is currently ongoing and likely to report in the autumn. This could also result in it becoming harder to claim for conditions like depression and anxiety. The outcome of the review remains to be seen, but it underscores the ongoing debate around disability benefits and eligibility criteria.
