Personal Independence Payment (PIP) provides financial support for people in the UK who face extra living costs due to long-term health conditions or disabilities. Designed to assist with daily expenses and mobility needs, PIP consists of two components: the daily living component and the mobility component. Eligible individuals can receive up to £184.30 per week, with payments offering vital support for over three million claimants nationwide.
Recent updates from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have introduced changes to the way PIP claims are assessed, alongside proposals to alter how payments are made. Let’s explore these updates and their impact on claimants.
New Assessment Providers for PIP
From 7th September 2024, the DWP introduced new organisations to handle PIP assessments across the UK. These changes aim to improve the efficiency and consistency of the claims process. The new assessment providers are:
- Serco: South West England
- Igneus UK Limited: South East England, London, and East of England
- Capita Business Services: The Midlands, Wales, and Northern Ireland
- Maximus UK Services Limited: North of England and Scotland
The process itself remains familiar. Claimants will still attend face-to-face assessments at venues within a 90-minute public transport journey from their home. Locations will remain accessible, and claimants can bring someone to support them during their assessment.
These updates primarily affect the companies managing the assessments, so claimants shouldn’t notice significant differences in their experience.
Payment Changes Under Consideration
Currently, PIP is paid weekly, with amounts structured as follows:
| Component | Weekly Payment |
|---|---|
| Daily Living | £108.55 or £72.75 |
| Mobility | £75.75 or £28.70 |
A new proposal seeks to replace these regular payments with vouchers or one-off grants. These alternatives would cover specific disability-related expenses, such as:
- Home adaptations
- Mobility aids
- Specialist services like home care
The decision now lies with the Labour government, which will determine whether to adopt this change or retain the existing weekly payment system.
How These Changes May Affect You
The DWP has reassured claimants that these changes won’t disrupt the process of applying for PIP. The steps to submit a claim, attend assessments, and receive decisions remain unchanged.
Face-to-face assessments will still be conducted at accessible locations, and applicants can continue to bring a companion for support. The structure for receiving and appealing decisions also remains the same.
PIP for Individuals Needing Care
There are no immediate changes to PIP for people who require care.
- If you live in a care home and pay for your care, you will continue receiving the daily living component.
- The mobility component will also remain payable unless you reside in a nursing home.
However, if your care home fees are partially or fully covered by your local authority or the NHS, the daily living component will stop after 28 days.
For those receiving care at home, PIP remains a valuable resource, helping individuals maintain independence and manage care expenses.
Reporting Changes in Circumstances
To avoid penalties or interruptions in payments, it’s crucial to report any changes in your circumstances to the DWP. These include updates to your personal details, living situation, or medical condition.
Some examples of changes that must be reported include:
- A new address, bank details, or changes to your doctor
- A change in the level of support you need for daily living or mobility tasks
- Moving into a care home, hospital, or prison
- Leaving the UK for more than 13 weeks
- Updates to immigration status (if not a British or Irish citizen)
You can report changes by calling the DWP on 0800 121 4433 or by textphone at 0800 121 4493. Alternatively, you can write to the address on your decision letter.
How PIP Reviews Work
The DWP conducts regular reviews to ensure claimants receive the correct level of support. If a review is required, you’ll receive a PIP review form with a deadline of four weeks to complete and return it.
When filling out the form, you must describe how your condition affects your ability to perform daily activities and mobility tasks. If nothing has changed since your last assessment, you can indicate this, but it’s still important to provide clear details about your daily challenges.
Supporting documents, such as updates on treatments, medications, or therapies, should also be included. After reviewing your submission, the DWP may:
- Extend your PIP award
- Increase or decrease your payments
- End your claim if you no longer meet eligibility criteria
Staying Informed and Seeking Help
Navigating PIP can be complex, especially with recent updates. Staying informed ensures you understand your rights and responsibilities as a claimant. Organisations like Citizens Advice, Turn2us, and local authorities can offer free and confidential advice on PIP claims and assessments.
If you need to report changes, seek guidance, or start a new claim, contact the DWP’s PIP helpline at 0800 917 2222.
PIP remains a vital lifeline for millions of people across the UK. By keeping up with these changes and fulfilling your reporting obligations, you can continue to access the support you need to manage your condition and maintain your independence.
