PIP reform must reflect changing needs of disabled people

Responding to the interim report of Stephen Timms’ review of Personal Independence Payment, David Finch, Interim Director of Health and Inequalities at the Health Foundation, said:

'The interim report provides an encouraging recognition that Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is currently failing to provide disabled people with the support they need, while the claims process poses a risk to people’s health.

'It will be vital that the review’s recommendations due in the autumn reflect changing needs. There have been significant increases in reported mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, particularly among younger people, that the current system is ill equipped to support.

'Reforms to support a sustainable system should avoid past mistakes of using tighter eligibility rules as a blunt tool to control costs – this can worsen outcomes and increase pressure on other public services. Spending pressures have also built up due to inadequate support in other parts of the benefits system and public services.

'Successful reform would ensure PIP is part of a system that better supports disabled people to participate fully in work, society and community life, and provides them with dignity and respect.'

Media contact

Nadine Sheikh-Sobeh
Nadine.sheikh-sobeh@health.org.uk
020 8152 8120