The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that the Call for Evidence for the review of Personal Independence Payments (PIP) will close on May 28. This marks a crucial step in determining the future of the UK's main disability benefit.
Review Timeline
The review, which is exploring potential cuts to PIP, aims to gather views from disabled people, charities, and other groups. Officials emphasized they are particularly seeking responses from those with lived or learned experience of PIP, including disabled individuals, their representative organizations, carers, clinicians, experts, MPs, and other elected officials across the UK.
With the deadline just four weeks away, the coming period is critical for shaping the future of PIP. Final recommendations are expected to be presented to the Government in the autumn.
Background
The review was launched after ministers were forced to pause plans to cut PIP and tighten eligibility criteria following a backlash from Labour MPs. The Government is now keen to demonstrate that the views of disabled people and their representatives have been fully considered before any decisions are made.
Ministerial Comments
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, who is leading the review, stated: "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. We are grateful for the time, thought and experience people are contributing, and we will continue to work to ensure this review is informed by the widest possible range of voices."
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. This engagement programme matters because good evidence is not only about data. It is about real lives, real barriers and practical recommendations that can make the system fairer and fit for the future."
