The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that certain Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants could face reassessments as infrequently as every four or six years under updated award guidance.
The change was highlighted by welfare rights website Rightsnet, which reports that the DWP said new standard review periods will be “operationalised” as four and six-year awards in practice. The DWP also confirmed that longer review intervals are intended to act as minimum periods rather than fixed standards, meaning awards can still be tailored to individual circumstances.
In a significant development for long-term claimants, the Department additionally confirmed that 10-year ‘light touch’ awards will remain in place for those with the most severe or stable conditions, reports the Daily Record.
Ongoing awards with a ‘light touch’ review
A ‘light touch’ review is typically awarded to claimants who have:
- very stable needs which are unlikely to change over time
- high level needs which will either stay the same or get worse
- a planned award review date due on or at State Pension age
- a special rules for end of life claim due when of State Pension age
PIP is a disability benefit paid to more than 3.9 million people in England and Wales who need help with daily living tasks or mobility needs because of a long-term health condition or disability.
Current DWP guidance already states that ‘light touch’ reviews are intended for claimants with severe conditions or those whose needs are unlikely to change. The updated clarification will be viewed as welcome reassurance for numerous disabled individuals who have concerns about regular reassessments and repetitive paperwork.
Within the existing framework, PIP awards can differ considerably in duration based on a claimant’s medical situation and whether their circumstances are anticipated to alter over time.
According to PIP guidance on GOV.UK, awards are regularly reviewed to make sure claimants continue receiving the correct level of support.
Nevertheless, campaigners and welfare advisers have consistently maintained that individuals with permanent or progressive conditions ought not to endure needless reassessments.
Rightsnet reports that the DWP’s clarification confirms longer review periods will continue to form part of the department’s approach for people with more stable conditions.
The UK Government previously outlined plans for longer PIP award review periods as part of wider disability benefit reforms, but the latest clarification provides more detail on how the changes are expected to work in practice.
This development emerges as the UK Government pursues broader reforms to disability benefits and assessments. People currently receiving PIP do not need to contact the DWP unless they are told to do so or their circumstances change.