The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a major update for the millions of people claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The Timms Review, led by Labour Party cabinet member Sir Stephen Timms, will be supported by a six-part “evidence and engagement programme” designed to ensure it reflects “as many perspectives and experiences as possible”.
Six Changes for PIP Claimants
Alongside the call for evidence, the DWP is conducting a huge evidence-gathering programme. This includes six key elements:
- Workshop in a box resources: These are designed to support local workshops, capturing in-depth insights from people with lived experience and those who support them across the UK.
- Evidence sessions with experts: Sessions will include people with lived experience and relevant professionals.
- Deliberative events: These will be held across the UK later in the year to discuss the future of PIP.
- Existing data and research: The review will analyse current data and studies.
- Written submissions: The ongoing Call for Evidence will continue to accept written contributions.
- New quantitative survey research: This is commissioned with the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen).
Why This Matters
PIP supports nearly four million people in England and Wales with the extra costs of living with a disability or long-term condition. Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability and co-chair of the Review, said: “PIP affects people’s everyday lives, independence, and ability to manage extra costs, so it is essential that this Review is informed by a diversity of experiences, evidence, and perspectives.”
Dr Clenton Farquharson CBE, co-chair of the Review, added: “PIP is not just a benefit. It is part of how many disabled people live with dignity, independence and choice. That is why this Review must be shaped by people who know the system from the inside. We need to hear what works, what does not, who is being missed, and what needs to change.”
The DWP says the engagement programme is crucial because good evidence is not only about data, but about real lives, real barriers, and practical recommendations that can make the system fairer and fit for the future.
