DWP to Discuss PIP Payment Changes in Commons on October 7

On October 7, 2023, the UK’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will hold an oral questions session in the House of Commons. This session will be significant as it will be the first opportunity for the new ministerial team, led by Liz Kendall, to respond to questions from the Opposition. The session is expected to address various pressing issues, including proposed changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) program, which affects over 3.6 million individuals in the UK. The DWP has been exploring reforms as part of the 'Modernising support for independent living: the health and disability green paper.' These proposed changes may include altering eligibility criteria for PIP, overhauling assessment processes, and potentially shifting the financial burden of PIP onto the NHS and local councils. The government is committed to enhancing support for disabled individuals and those with health conditions, aiming to facilitate their entry and retention in the workforce. Alternative payment methods are also being considered, such as a voucher scheme for specific costs related to disabilities, a receipt-based reimbursement system, and one-off grants for significant expenses. These changes are part of a broader strategy to ensure that the voices of disabled individuals are central to policy-making. The Office for Budget Responsibility has warned that these reforms could lead to a significant number of individuals losing access to additional Universal Credit, raising concerns about the potential impact on those with severe mobility or mental health issues.