The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an update on whether Personal Independence Payment (PIP) will continue to be paid in cash under plans to reform the benefit. The issue was raised in Parliament after questions were asked about the future of payments for people living with disabilities or long-term health conditions. Labour MP Neil Duncan-Jordan asked the DWP whether cash would remain the default way of paying PIP following the Timms Review.
He also wanted to know whether people would be able to choose if they received support in other forms instead of money. Responding on October 29, Sir Stephen Timms said: “The Timms Review steering group is considering its recommendations ahead of the final report’s publication in autumn.”
He added: “The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions will consider the findings before deciding any next steps.”
The response means the Government has not yet confirmed what the final arrangements for cash payments will look like. The review, which is looking at how PIP works and how it could be improved, has already set out a number of possible changes. In September, the steering group published its emerging recommendations, including a proposal that cash should remain the foundation of PIP awards.
However, it also suggested that some people could receive services or other non-cash support alongside their payments. This could include help with equipment, mobility and transport, depending on a person’s needs.
The review also wants PIP to remain a non-means-tested benefit, meaning someone’s income and savings would not determine whether they qualify.
Other proposals include making the application process easier, improving assessments and reducing unnecessary reviews for people with lifelong or degenerative conditions. The group has also suggested making better use of evidence already held by the DWP, NHS and social care services, with the claimant’s permission.
PIP is designed to help people with the extra costs of living with a disability or long-term health condition.
For now, no changes to how PIP is paid have been confirmed as a result of the review.
The final recommendations are expected later this autumn, after which ministers will decide what happens next.
