A sweeping review of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system, ordered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), could significantly alter eligibility for an estimated 1.9 million current claimants. The examination, led by Labour MP Sir Stephen Timms, forms a central part of the government's strategy to reduce the nation's soaring welfare expenditure.
Focus on Mobility Component and Motability Scheme
The review will place particular scrutiny on the assessment process for PIP's mobility component. This part of the benefit acts as a gateway to the Motability scheme, which provides vehicles to disabled people. According to data from the TaxPayers' Alliance, the number of people claiming the enhanced rate of the mobility component has surged by a staggering 142 per cent between January 2019 and April 2025.
Of the 1.9 million total PIP claimants, approximately 815,000 individuals use the mobility component to access a vehicle through the Motability scheme. Sir Stephen Timms acknowledged the scheme's importance but stated the review aims to ensure it delivers "better value for money for taxpayers." He confirmed that existing vehicle leases and wheelchair-adapted vehicles would not be affected by changes.
Mounting Pressure on Public Finances
The rapid increase in claimant numbers has sparked significant concern over the sustainability of the benefits system. John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, described the situation as "an emergency for taxpayers," with claimant numbers "spiralling out of control." He called for cross-party cooperation to implement radical reform and prevent the system from "crippling the nation’s finances."
The review is being framed as a necessary measure to manage costs while protecting support for those who need it most. The government has emphasised its commitment to a co-production model for the assessment overhaul.
What Happens Next?
Sir Stephen Timms has pledged that the review will be developed in collaboration with disabled people and their representative organisations. "We have made it clear that we will co-produce our review of the PIP assessment with disabled people and representatives of disability organisations," he stated.
The outcome is poised to be one of the most significant changes to disability welfare in recent years. While the government insists support will remain for those who qualify, the prospect of tightened eligibility criteria has created uncertainty for millions. The review's findings and subsequent policy changes will be closely watched by claimants, advocacy groups, and taxpayers alike.
