DWP PIP policy 'doesn't reflect reality' as claimants face extra £900 in bills

Changes to the eligibility for PIP (Personal Independence Payment) could push people into poverty as they lose out on their benefits, a charity has warned.

An additional rule coming in next year will mean to get the daily living part, you have to get at least one score of four on one of the activities you are assessed on to determine how much you get.

PIP helps cover the extra costs of those who live with a long-term health condition or disability, with payments depending on if you are affected in your mobility or otherwise in your daily living. There is a higher and lower rate for each payment, with the daily living element currently paying £73.90 a week or £110.40 a week, or £5,740.80 a year at the higher amount.

The Government's estimates suggest the average person losing out due to the changes will lose £4,500 a year. Labour was asked in a written question in Parliament to justify the changes to the eligibility, which could mean a person could consistently score 2s across the 12 activities, needing help with activities such as eating or washing, but still not be eligible for the daily living element.

DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms explained the thinking behind the PIP change: "A high number of people get PIP by having multiple but low-level functional needs across several activities. These could individually be managed with small interventions or the addition of aids or appliances.

"This change will focus PIP more on those with the greatest needs, ensuring those who are unable to complete activities at all, or who require more help from others to complete them, still get support." The changes are coming in from November 2026.

Rebecca Lamb, external relations manager at , was unimpressed with this rationale. She said: "The suggestion that many could simply cope with "small interventions" or use aids and appliances doesn't reflect the reality of those we see.

"Even with the right equipment or support in place, many people still face significant barriers. From unpredictable flare-ups and chronic fatigue to the mental strain of navigating daily tasks.

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"A walking stick or grab rail might help with mobility, but it doesn't take away pain, exhaustion, or the emotional toll of living with a long-term condition." She criticised the idea you need at least one score of four to get any daily living payment: "Lots of people with lower scores across several areas can still face significant challenges managing their day-to-day life.

"That’s why it’s so important that assessments consider the cumulative impact of all difficulties, rather than just individual scores in isolation. Everyone’s situation is unique and support should reflect that."

Ms Lamb explained that PIP is designed to help meet the extra costs of living with a health condition or disability, rather than to assess what a person can do with support. She warned of dire consequences with the benefits cut: "Removing or reducing this help based on assumptions about how people might cope could push more vulnerable people into poverty and make existing health inequalities worse."

The benefits advocate said the needs of claimants can vary widely. Some people may need only a few relatively low cost items, like grab rails or a walking stick, while others face greater costs, such as for a wheelchair, mobility scooter or a specialist bed.

Ms Lamb said the extra bills don't stop here: "There are also ongoing costs to think about, like maintenance, batteries, or upgrades. Plus, many people face extra costs in other areas too, like transport, heating, or help with daily tasks.

"Estimations put it at an extra £900 a month when compared to the needs of those without disabilities." She encouraged those struggling with costs to reach out for any support they can get.

You may be able to get a charity grant, and some local councils run schemes providing financial support, as part of the Household Support Fund.