Nearly 4 million people receiving Personal Independence Payment are being urged to share their views
Millions of benefit recipients are being encouraged to voice their opinions on the future of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), as ministers initiate a significant review with a strict deadline for responses.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that the first phase of the Timms Review is now in progress, with a nationwide “call for evidence” open until May 28, 2026. In a post on X, the DWP stated: “The Timms Review steering group wants to hear your views on the future of PIP. The first step in the group’s engagement – a Call for Evidence – is now open.”
Nearly 4 million claimants could be affected
The review could have extensive implications, with PIP currently assisting nearly 4 million individuals in England and Wales with the additional costs associated with disability. Ministers assert that the exercise is intended to ensure the benefit remains “fair and fit for the future” as demand continues to increase.
The call for evidence is open to a broad audience – including disabled individuals, carers, clinicians, charities and MPs – with the Government eager to collect as much feedback as possible before formulating recommendations.
What ministers are examining
The review will investigate whether PIP is still functioning as planned more than a decade after its introduction in 2013.
Key areas under consideration include:
- Whether PIP is fulfilling its primary purpose
- If assessments offer fair access to support
- Variations in claimant experiences between groups
- How societal and workplace changes have impacted eligibility
These themes form the core of the review, which is set to report back in the autumn.
‘Vital’ to hear from claimants
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, encouraged people to participate, stating: “It is vital that as many people as possible have the chance to contribute.”
He further added: “I encourage anyone with experience of the PIP system… to submit their views.”
Co-chair Dr Clenton Farquharson highlighted that the benefit has a “profound impact” on people’s daily lives, independence and dignity.
Review co-chair, Sharon Brennan, said: “It is essential for the success of this review that we hear frank and honest views from as many disabled people, carers, advocates and others as wish to participate. That’s why this Call for Evidence is just the start of our engagement plans, which will be wide and varied to ensure people can offer their views in a way that works for them.””
Deadline set for responses
The consultation closes at 11.59pm on May 28, 2026, after which submissions will be analysed by the review’s steering group.
Officials indicate that this is only the first stage, with further opportunities to contribute anticipated as the work progresses.
Why it matters
For millions of households, PIP payments are a crucial financial lifeline, assisting to cover additional costs associated with long-term health conditions.
With the tally of claimants steadily increasing and the system under growing scrutiny, the result of the review could mould the future of disability benefits for years to come.
