DWP PIP changes update as 'timeline' explained for 'all customers'

The Department for Work and Pensions has issued an update on an important PIP timeline that will affect all claimants as new changes take effect. The department says the reforms will improve day-to-day accessibility for people claiming the benefit.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can help cover additional living costs if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability and struggle with certain everyday tasks or getting around due to your condition. You can receive PIP even if you're working, have savings or are claiming most other benefits.

Changes outlined in Parliament this week come as the number of people claiming Personal Independence Payments (PIP) in England and Wales has reached a record high, according to the latest figures. As of July, just over four million people were entitled to claim the benefit - a rise of 7%. An MP asked the department "what the timeline is for expanding the digital application option for Personal Independence Payment to all eligible claimants."

In reply, Sir Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities) - set out what is happening and how claimants stand to benefit from the changes. He said: "Through the Health Transformation Programme, we are expanding digital services for Personal Independence Payment customers.

"Over 90% of those making new PIP applications can now submit their health information online after starting their claim by phone. This is benefitting customers by removing postage times and increasing accessibility. We are continuing to extend this option to all customers and, by the end of the Programme, customers will be able to view application progress and report a change of circumstances online, reducing their need to call the enquiry line."

His comments, issued on Thursday, come just after a new update was released from the government released this week saying that the Health Transformation Programme (HTP) "is modernising Health and Disability benefits over the longer term. It is transforming the entire Personal Independence Payment (PIP) service, aiming to introduce a simpler application process, including an option to apply online, improved evidence gather and a more tailored journey for customers."

The government claims the Health Transformation Programme changes aim to " build trust in our services and decisions, and create a more efficient service for taxpayers." The programme is developing a new Health Assessment Service and long-term transformation of the Personal Independence Payment service, officials say.

The Health Assessment Service (HAS) covers Personal Independence Payment and certain specialist benefits, incorporating new IT and streamlined procedures. The latest update from the government released this week states: "The HTP has been developing the new HAS at a small scale initially in the Health Transformation Area (HTA).

"There are currently two HTAs located in London and Birmingham. Within these HTAs , new PIP applications as well as reassessments and award reviews are processed in-house for a select number of London and Birmingham postcodes.