The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that the Timms Review will report back before July 16. Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, provided an update to the Work and Pensions Committee, stating he expects an interim report before the summer recess, which is set for July 16 according to the Labour Party government.
Final Report Expected by Year-End
Mr McFadden also informed MPs that a final report for the review is anticipated by the end of this year. He added that any necessary legislative changes would follow after that. The government launched the Timms Review to ensure Personal Independence Payment (PIP) remains fair and fit for the future in a changing world.
PIP supports many individuals with the extra costs of a disability or long-term health condition. The government is committed to keeping it as a non-means-tested cash benefit, available to people both in and out of work. However, despite shifting trends in disability and long-term health conditions, as well as changes in society and the workplace, PIP has never undergone a full review.
Focus on System Operation
Mr McFadden explained: "What we were saying in the terms of reference was, we were sending a signal to the reviewers not to come forward with a big increase in costs package. There's nothing to stop them coming forward with measures that would reduce costs. We didn't want them to come forward with a review that simply said let's pay much more into the system. We want to look at the operation of the system."
He highlighted a critical question regarding changes in health conditions among PIP claimants, noting an increase in conditions like anxiety, depression, and neurodiverse conditions. He questioned whether the benefit is fit for purpose in dealing with this variety of conditions.
Co-Production with Stakeholders
To ensure lived experience is central to its work, the review will be co-produced with disabled people, their representative organizations, carers, clinicians, experts, MPs, and other stakeholders.
