The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to restart the transition of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) claimants to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), putting around 150,000 individuals at risk of losing their benefits.
Since 2013, the DWP has been phasing out DLA, encouraging claimants to switch to PIP. This changeover was temporarily paused during the Covid-19 pandemic, but now the process resumes for the 153,000 remaining adult DLA recipients.
Those affected will be required to apply for PIP. Failure to respond to the DWP’s notification could lead to the immediate cessation of benefits. Even successful applicants may receive reduced payments or be deemed ineligible, as PIP assessments use a points-based system evaluating daily living and mobility needs.
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James Taylor, director of strategy at disability charity Scope, warns: “The DWP must ensure disabled people aren’t penalised, especially as their additional expenses are rising.” He urged claimants to respond promptly to DWP contact while highlighting concerns over the PIP assessment process, which many find dehumanising and confrontational.
PIP offers two components — daily living and mobility — each with standard or enhanced payment rates based on points awarded during assessment. Importantly, claimants cannot receive more under PIP than previously received under DLA, and those losing DLA may see impacts on other linked benefits.
Assessment usually takes place in person at a centre but may also be conducted via phone or home visits. In some cases, if sufficient supporting evidence is provided, the DWP may carry out a paper-based assessment, eliminating the need for a face-to-face evaluation.
Claimants are advised to gather and submit comprehensive evidence to support their applications and prepare for the reassessment to safeguard their entitlement.