DWP overhaul could see benefits cut for 87 health conditions

A proposed overhaul of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could drastically reduce financial support for thousands of people with disabilities and chronic health conditions.

The Government is considering significant changes to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) PIP system this year. The review reportedly focuses on 87 specific conditions, including chronic pain, mobility impairments, and musculoskeletal disorders, sparking concern among advocacy groups.

This comes as Labour pushes for reforms to reduce national benefits spending. DWP spending on disability benefits is predicted to rise by 63% over the next five years, from £21.6billion in 2023/24 to £35.3billion in 2028/29.

This sharp increase in costs has prompted the push for reforms to curb the growing expenditure.

Currently, PIP is available to individuals aged 16 and over with long-term physical or mental health conditions that limit their ability to perform daily tasks or move independently.

Payments range from £72.65 to £108.55 per week for daily living support, with additional funds for mobility assistance. After benefit rates rise in April, claimants with the highest level of need could receive up to £749 per month.

Under the proposed changes, individuals with conditions like osteoarthritis, chronic pain syndrome, and inflammatory arthritis could face stricter eligibility requirements, raising concerns that those with less visible or fluctuating conditions may lose their support.

Disability campaigners warn that the new criteria could unfairly impact individuals with conditions that are difficult to diagnose or vary in severity.

They also note that tightening eligibility may push more people into other forms of welfare, shifting the financial burden rather than addressing the underlying issue.

While the Government maintains that aid will still be available for those with the most pressing needs, the lack of clarity surrounding the specifics of the changes is contributing to anxiety.

A consultation on the reforms is expected this spring.