10-year warning to 74,000 people over PIP payments from DWP

More than 74,000 people are facing delays of up to 10 years for their legitimate Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims from the Department for Work and Pensions, according to money expert Andy Wood.

The payments should have been made to people who need extra help with the cost of living with a condition or disability.

Andy said: “The current backlog in PIP assessments is causing significant financial hardship for thousands of claimants. It is unacceptable that over 74,000 people have to wait up to 10 years for the payments they rightfully deserve.

“This delay undermines the purpose of PIP, which is to provide timely support to those with disabilities and long-term health conditions. The delay causes financial strain and increases stress and anxiety among claimants, many of whom rely on these payments for essential daily living. costs.

“The inefficiencies in the system are evident, with a staggering 392,000 PIP reviews outstanding. The DWP’s struggle to manage new claims and existing reviews is leaving many vulnerable people in prolonged uncertainty about their financial future.

“The fact that 78,400 claimants can continue to receive PIP when they no longer qualify highlights the need for a more efficient and responsive review process. However, the priority should be to ensure that those entitled to increased payments receive them promptly. Proposed shift to vouchers. and grants raise concerns about the adequacy and accessibility of support for people with disabilities.

“Many claimants may struggle to use vouchers in a way that meets their specific needs, which cash payments currently enable. This change could also create additional administrative burdens and potential stigma for those using the voucher system.

“The DWP must clear the backlog immediately and improve the assessment process. Without meaningful reform, the system will continue to fail those it is meant to support. It is essential that the government consider the impact of these delays and proposed changes on the welfare of claimants. A comprehensive review of the PIP system is needed to ensure that it meets the needs of all claimants efficiently and fairly. This includes investing in better training of assessors, streamlining the review process and ensuring that adequate resources are allocated to handle both new and existing applications. timely”.