New laws have come into force that impact people claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP), with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) issuing a key undertaking on assessments. The so-called “Right to Try” change is central to the Government’s welfare reforms, which aim to stop people being “trapped on benefits”. It means employment will not automatically trigger a benefits reassessment for claimants on Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and the health element of Universal Credit in England, Wales and Scotland.
Labour MP Seeks Clarity on Assessment Triggers
Labour MP Vicky Foxcroft asked a written question to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, seeking details on when a decision-maker is required to order new work capability or personal independence payment assessments under the Right to Try regulations. Sir Stephen Timms, Minister of State for Social Security and Disability, provided a key undertaking for those on PIP. He stated: “This Government is committed to giving disabled people and people with health conditions the confidence that working will not trigger a reassessment and a potential loss of benefits. Under the Right to Try regulations, staff cannot order a new Work Capability Assessment or Personal Independence Payment assessment solely because a claimant has started paid or voluntary work.”
Consultation and Voluntary Work Protections
The changes follow the Government's consultation with disabled people and organisations through collaboration committees. The new rules also guarantee that people looking to volunteer can do so without fear of benefit reassessment. The head of Mental Health UK called the move a “positive and practical step”.
Political Debate on Welfare Costs
At Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starmer blamed the Conservatives for the rising welfare bill, which has increased by an apparent £20 billion since Labour came into office. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch questioned the lack of a welfare reform Bill in the King’s Speech. Sir Keir responded by highlighting measures such as a youth guarantee, 300,000 work experience placements, and Alan Milburn’s review into youth unemployment. He noted that the welfare bill soared by £88 billion under the Conservatives, with nearly three million people written off and face-to-face assessments collapsing due to contracts agreed by the shadow chancellor.
Minister Emphasises Economic Benefits
Sir Stephen Timms emphasised the importance of the law change: “Giving sick and disabled people legal protection to try work without fear is vital for their futures and for growing our economy. It’s part of the work we’re doing to bear down on the cost of living and boost living standards for sick or disabled people in every corner of the country. With 2.8 million people out of work due to long-term sickness, we’re removing the barriers that have held people back for too long.”
Charity Welcomes Safety Net
Brian Dow, chief executive of Mental Health UK, said: “People often tell us that fear of reassessment, or even losing essential support if things don’t work out, is a significant barrier to taking those first steps back into work. The Right to Try is a positive and practical step that will ensure people have a safety net when exploring opportunities for work or volunteering. This welcome initiative will ensure people are more supported and help them to build confidence, skills and connection at a pace that supports their recovery to better mental health.”
