The DWP overhaul will affect claimants
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants will be able to retain their payments for longer periods without facing reassessment under sweeping new reforms. The changes were rolled out from April 6.
The minimum duration for which someone will receive PIP is being extended to three years before their case could be reviewed, depending on their individual circumstances. The change offers PIP claimants greater security and certainty over how long they will continue to receive financial support.
Should they still be considered eligible at the next review, the period will increase further to five years. Previously, cases could be subject to reassessment in as little as nine months, reports Birmingham Live.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) overhaul is designed to reduce the frequency of case reviews, freeing up staff to tackle a significant backlog. PIP is the principal disability benefit, paid to those who require assistance with mobility or everyday tasks, and is worth up to £194 a week.
The announcement comes amid a continuing review into the future of PIP, which is expected to publish its findings in the autumn. That review could ultimately lead to cuts being made to the disability benefit.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting indicated this week that the Government intends to reduce welfare spending in order to redirect funds towards defence.
