On March 22, 2025, the Benefits and Work Forum launched a new online test to help claimants evaluate their eligibility for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), amid proposed changes from the Labour Party's government, particularly under the guidance of Minister Liz Kendall. This move comes in response to a Green Paper from Kendall and her fellow lawmakers, who are suggesting modifications to the current PIP scoring system.
According to the Benefits and Work Forum, the online PIP test is designed to simplify a process that many applicants find confusing. The forum stated, "We know from comments and emails that a lot of people are confused about how Labour's proposed new PIP scoring system works. So we've created an online test to allow you to try the scoring system for yourself." The test allows users to attempt it as many times as they wish, with an option to receive results via email or to view them onscreen.
While the mobility component of the PIP remains unchanged in this new proposal, the government has set specific requirements for the daily living component, stating that claimants must score a minimum of 8 points for the standard rate or 12 points for the enhanced rate, with at least one descriptor needing to score 4 points or more. The forum clarified that if claimants select descriptors totalling 8 points but none score above 4 points, they would not qualify for an award. "The changes, if they ever happen, will not apply before November 2026," the forum confirmed.
These changes, however, have not gone unnoticed by critics. In a recent editorial, The Guardian expressed discontent with the government's approach to welfare. They remarked, "These are the wrong choices, and the government's efforts to sell them are making matters worse. Alarmist rhetoric about the unaffordable burden on taxpayers scapegoats claimants and damages society.” The editorial continues by emphasizing that despite a rise in health-related claims, the share of national income spent on social security has remained stable. The piece concludes by calling on campaigners to persist in their fight for disabled individuals' rights.
Meanwhile, data released by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) indicates that over 1.5 million PIP claimants—representing 41% of the total 3.7 million claimants—have been issued awards lasting five years or longer. This figure was noted at the end of January 2025, showing that 1,501,215 individuals across England, Wales, and abroad currently benefit from ongoing PIP awards due to disabilities, long-term illnesses, or health conditions.
Critically, this report did not account for approximately 35,000 PIP claimants in Scotland who are transitioning to the newly introduced Adult Disability Payment (ADP) this Spring. The figures reveal that over 58% of claimants with visual diseases are receiving monthly awards that can reach up to £737.20. Additionally, over half of the general musculoskeletal condition claimants (50.8%) and nearly 50% of those suffering from neurological conditions have also been awarded longer-term support.
The current awards can vary in length from nine months up to ten years; however, the DWP records only reflect those awards extended up to 'five years or more.' On a weekly basis, claimants could receive between £28.70 and £184.30, depending on their respective situations. Payments for PIP and ADP are typically issued every four weeks.
The DWP emphasizes that regular reviews will be conducted on most awards to ascertain that claimants continue to receive the most suitable level of support, regardless of their award length. If a claimant's health condition is expected to improve, they may receive a limited term award not subjected to review, lasting up to two years. Conversely, ongoing awards assigned a 'light touch' review will generally cater to individuals with stable health needs and those likely to see minimal change over time.
In a separate discussion surrounding the government’s welfare reforms, Stella Creasey spoke out against the cuts, arguing that reducing benefits will not create employment opportunities for the unemployed. On March 21, 2025, Liz Kendall announced additional controversial changes to the PIP that have stirred public debate.
The governmental stance has faced scrutiny, especially as critics argue that cutting benefits fails to address the root causes of unemployment. As stated by Creasey, it is essential to consider the real implications of such policies.
Despite these ongoing discussions, new claimants for PIP will find that eligibility is based on difficulties they may experience with daily living tasks or mobility for a period of at least three months, with those issues projected to persist for at least nine months. The DWP advises that individuals consider applying if they require assistance in areas such as eating, bathing, dressing, managing medications, or navigating various health tasks.
To claim PIP, applicants can reach out to the DWP, and information is readily available on the GOV.UK website to aid in the application process. Prospective applicants are advised to gather all necessary details before making their claims to ensure a smooth application experience.
With the recent changes to PIP and the introduction of the ADP in Scotland, ongoing developments in welfare support laws continue to evoke reactions from both supporters and detractors. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders will be keenly observing how these new measures play out, particularly their effects on those who rely heavily on this vital assistance.
