DWP denies PIP to 40% – including cancer patients and amputees

More than 40 percent of disability benefit applicants with arthritis, PTSD and multiple sclerosis (MS) were rejected by the government during a six-month period. Half of all applications based on cerebral palsy were also denied during this time.

The Observer’s analysis of personal independence payment (PIP) disability benefit data for England and Wales revealed that one in four applications from amputees were declined. The publication reports that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) turned down thousands of applicants between August 2023 and January 2024, including those with cancer and emphysema.

PIP is a benefit awarded to those with long-term physical or mental health condition, or disability, who have difficulty doing everyday tasks as a result. It is intended to help with extra living costs. The assessment is based on an applicant’s ability to perform specific activities.

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The Observer’s analysis revealed that 45 per cent of PIP applications based on MS were rejected – almost 1,100 out of the 2,451 – during the six-month period. One in four applications – 207 in total – from those with amputated limbs were also refused.

Additionally, 40 percent of osteoarthritis sufferers and more than 40 percent of those with inflammatory arthritis were turned down. This was similar to the 40 percent refused based on PTSD and 30 percent with Huntington’s disease or Parkinson’s. Half of all based on cerebral palsy were also denied. Data also showed that almost one in five applicants with cancer were rejected.

Rensa Gaunt, of disabled people’s group Inclusion London, told the publication: “These statistics show that PIP is not an easy benefit to get, contrary to the current government rhetoric, which says that too many people claim benefits and that they are undeserving. The high rates of Pip decisions overturned at tribunal with no additional information needed show that many disabled people are turned down for benefits they are eligible for.”