Millions of benefit claimants are being urged to have their say on the future of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), as ministers launch a major review with a firm deadline for responses.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that the first stage of the Timms Review is now under way, with a nationwide “call for evidence” open until May 28, 2026. In a post on X, the DWP said: “The Timms Review steering group wants to hear your views on the future of PIP. The first step in the group’s engagement – a Call for Evidence – is now open.”
Nearly 4 million claimants affected
The review could have far-reaching consequences, with PIP currently supporting nearly 4 million people in England and Wales with the extra costs of disability.
Ministers say the exercise is designed to ensure the benefit remains “fair and fit for the future” as demand continues to rise.
The call for evidence is open to a wide audience – including disabled people, carers, clinicians, charities and MPs – with the Government keen to gather as much feedback as possible before drawing up recommendations.
What ministers are looking at
The review will examine whether PIP is still working as intended more than a decade after it was introduced in 2013.
Key areas being considered include:
- Whether PIP is delivering on its core purpose
- If assessments provide fair access to support
- Differences in claimant experiences between groups
- How changes in society and the workplace have affected eligibility
These themes form the backbone of the review, which will report back in the autumn.
‘Vital’ to hear from claimants
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, urged people to take part, saying: “It is vital that as many people as possible have the chance to contribute.”
He added: “I encourage anyone with experience of the PIP system… to submit their views.”
Co-chair Dr Clenton Farquharson said the benefit has a “profound impact” on people’s daily lives, independence and dignity.
Review co-chair, Sharon Brennan, said: “It is essential for the success of this review that we hear frank and honest views from as many disabled people, carers, advocates and others as wish to participate.
“That’s why this Call for Evidence is just the start of our engagement plans, which will be wide and varied to ensure people can offer their views in a way that works for them.”
Deadline set for responses
The consultation closes at 11.59pm on May 28, 2026, after which submissions will be analysed by the review’s steering group. Officials say this is only the first stage, with further opportunities to contribute expected as the work progresses.
Why it matters
For millions of households, PIP payments are a crucial financial lifeline, helping to cover additional costs linked to long-term health conditions.
With the number of claimants continuing to grow and scrutiny of the system intensifying, the outcome of the review could shape the future of disability benefits for years to come.