DWP call to PIP claimants for major disability benefit review

The move comes after the Government received more than 38,000 responses to its recent call for evidence, with ministers now looking for even more feedback through a new nationwide engagement programme.

A “Workshop in a Box” toolkit has been launched to help charities, community groups and disability organisations host discussions about the benefit and gather real-life experiences from claimants.

The sessions will focus on three key areas: what PIP is for, what it is like to apply for the benefit and how decisions about claims are made.

Social Security and Disability Minister Sir Stephen Timms said the Government wanted disabled people to be involved throughout the process.

He said: “Hearing from disabled people across the UK is vitally important to inform the Review.”

He added: “That is why we are co-producing this review with disabled people every step of the way — to make sure that PIP is truly fair and fit for the future.”

The minister also encouraged organisations across the country to take part in the scheme.

“I encourage any organisation that is able to host a workshop to do so, because we need to hear the views and lived experience of as many disabled people as possible,” he said.

What is the Timms Review?

The Timms Review was launched to examine whether PIP remains suitable for modern-day claimants and whether it accurately reflects the impact that disabilities and health conditions can have on daily life.

Under the latest plans, organisations can use the ready-made materials to run their own sessions and then submit findings directly to the review team before the July 17 deadline.

Review co-chair Sharon Brennan said it was essential that people from all backgrounds had an opportunity to contribute.

“It is vital to the success of the review that we hear from as many people as possible about their thoughts on PIP,” she said.

She highlighted the importance of reaching people whose views are often missing from official consultations.

“Especially those whose voices are less heard such as those from marginalised communities or who do not feel comfortable engaging with government-led consultations.”

Ms Brennan said the new approach would allow people to discuss the benefit system with organisations they already know and trust.

“We hope this new engagement method allows people to have conversations that matter with the organisations that they most trust so their lived experiences can shape the outcomes of our review.”

What do unions say about the review?

The TUC said its analysis showed that the unemployment rate for disabled people is 8.8% – the highest since before the pandemic – compared with 4.3% for non-disabled people.

General secretary Paul Nowak said: “The Government has a vital opportunity to support more disabled people into work through the Timms Review.

“Right now, disabled people are bearing the brunt of unemployment, low pay and insecure work, all while navigating a social security system that is not fit for purpose.

“Only a genuine reform of Pip will ensure that disabled people who can work receive the support they need to move into and stay in work.

“But this must come alongside wider action too, like ensuring disabled workers get the reasonable adjustments they need, stronger rights at work and reform of the access to work scheme.

“That’s how you deliver a system that works for disabled workers.”

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The workshops are open to a wide range of groups, including Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations (DDPOs), disability charities, health organisations, community groups and elected representatives.

The DWP says the evidence gathered will play a direct role in shaping recommendations from the review’s steering group, with an interim report expected to be published in the coming months.

The review forms part of wider Government plans for the welfare system, alongside measures aimed at helping more disabled people into work and increasing support for those with health conditions.