Number of people claiming key disability benefit hits record high
Summary
The number of people claiming Personal Independence Payments (PIP), a benefit for disabled people in England and Wales, has reached over four million, a record high. The government is reviewing the PIP system because it is seen as not working well, with plans to improve assessments and support.Key Facts
- Over 4 million people claimed PIP as of July, up 7% from the previous year.
- PIP helps with extra costs for people with disabilities or long-term health issues.
- More than half of claimants are aged 50 and older.
- The cost of PIP benefits rose from £16.3 billion in 2019-20 to £27.3 billion in 2024-25.
- Spending on PIP is expected to reach £41.5 billion by 2030-31.
- A government review led by Sir Stephen Timms found the current PIP system "not fit for purpose."
- The review suggests more face-to-face assessments and adding non-cash support alongside payments.
- The full review report is expected later this year.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
