Fury as main new DWP PIP rule may imply ‘extra profitable functions’ | Politics | News | EUROtoday

The outcomes of a trial for the digital self-serve system discovered that the variety of individuals registering for PIP elevated by 22% over the primary 12 months. There was additionally a 7% enhance within the quantity of profitable functions that have been awarded PIP over the primary 19 weeks of the trial, knowledge from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) revealed.

However, it is triggered fury from some quarters – together with Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Helen Whately, who insisted all PIP assessments “should be face-to-face”.

An analysis by the DWP prompt that candidates discovered it simpler to use on-line, as making a cellphone name required them to “be in the right headspace or having to work up the confidence to begin the application”, whereas written functions have been seen as “daunting”. The on-line software, by comparability, resulted in “lower levels of stress and anxiety around completing their application” and was extra versatile and handy, the analysis stated.

But as ministers proceed their makes an attempt to curtail the rising advantages invoice, the analysis stated there was now “robust evidence that Digital Self-Serve would lead to a substantial increase in the number of PIP applications”.

PIP is without doubt one of the principal advantages which may be claimed by disabled individuals within the UK. It is designed to assist individuals with long-term well being situations or disabilities with their residing prices.

The Government needed to curb plans final 12 months, which might have overhauled evaluation standards for PIP, after the specter of a revolt by Labour backbenchers who believed it may have unfairly compelled some disabled individuals into work.

Helen Whately stated: “The last thing we need is DWP encouraging online assessments – opening up a benefits Pandora’s box with ever easier access.

“Sickness benefits are intended to help people with serious disabilities, and claiming them should not be a tick-box exercise to get extra welfare instead of working.

“The Government has no grip over the welfare system. Keir Starmer has caved to his left-wing backbenchers, abandoning reforms and lifting the two-child cap.

“Only the Conservatives have a plan to get welfare under control and save £23 billion.”