The Department for Work and Pensions has issued an update on PIP as several changes are made to the service
The Department for Work and Pensions has provided an update on a key PIP timeline that will impact all claimants as new changes come into force. The department says the reforms will enhance day-to-day accessibility for individuals receiving the benefit.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can assist with covering extra living expenses if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability and experience difficulty with certain everyday activities or mobility due to your condition. You can be entitled to PIP regardless of whether you’re in employment, have savings or are receiving most other benefits.
Reforms outlined in Parliament this week arrive as the number of individuals claiming Personal Independence Payments (PIP) in England and Wales has hit a record high, based on the most recent figures. As of July, just over four million people were eligible to claim the benefit – an increase of 7%, reports the Mirror.
An MP questioned the department “what the timeline is for expanding the digital application option for Personal Independence Payment to all eligible claimants”. In response, Sir Stephen Timms – Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities) – outlined what is taking place and how claimants will benefit from the reforms. He said: “Through the Health Transformation Programme, we are expanding digital services for Personal Independence Payment customers.
“Over 90% of those making new PIP applications can now submit their health information online after starting their claim by phone. This is benefiting customers by removing postage times and increasing accessibility. We are continuing to extend this option to all customers and, by the end of the Programme, customers will be able to view application progress and report a change of circumstances online, reducing their need to call the enquiry line.”
His remarks, released on Thursday, follow a fresh update published by the government this week, stating that the Health Transformation Programme (HTP) “is modernising Health and Disability benefits over the longer term. It is transforming the entire Personal Independence Payment (PIP) service, aiming to introduce a simpler application process, including an option to apply online, improved evidence gather and a more tailored journey for customers.”
The government maintains that the Health Transformation Programme changes are designed to “build trust in our services and decisions, and create a more efficient service for taxpayers.”
Officials say the programme is developing a new Health Assessment Service alongside a long-term overhaul of the Personal Independence Payment service. The Health Assessment Service (HAS) encompasses Personal Independence Payment and certain specialist benefits, introducing new IT systems and more efficient processes.
Apply for PIP
According to Citizens Advice, unless you are terminally ill, you will generally be required to complete an assessment as part of your Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claim. This provides an opportunity for you to explain how your condition affects your daily life – it is not a medical diagnosis or physical examination.
PIP is made up of two components — a daily living element for those who require assistance with routine tasks, and a mobility element for those who need support getting around.
Government guidance states that whether you qualify for one or both components, along with the amount you may receive, “depends on how difficult you find everyday tasks and getting around”. To make a PIP application, visit the relevant gov.uk webpage.
