Benefit claimants face the risk of sliding into poverty due to concerning delays imposed by the government, as highlighted by a group of MPs. According to a report from the Public Accounts Committee, individuals are experiencing waits exceeding a year for the processing of their claims for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
The committee’s report, released today, reveals that only 51% of PIP claims were handled within 75 working days during the 2024-25 period, falling short of the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) target of 75%. The report emphasized the detrimental impact of these delays, stating that extended processing times can lead claimants into debt and poverty, criticizing the Department for lacking a sufficient short-term action plan for improvement.
Members of the Committee shared instances of constituents enduring prolonged waits, some lasting over a year, for their claims to be processed. Despite the DWP disputing the prevalence of these delays in its statistics, MPs acknowledged the genuine issue that needed urgent attention.
Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, expressed disappointment in the DWP’s service to disability claimants, noting a persistent lack of progress despite promises made three years ago. The Committee urged the DWP to enhance transparency by providing detailed data on waiting times, including the longest wait recorded in the latest period.
PIP, the primary disability benefit aiding individuals with extra living expenses due to challenges in daily activities, has been subject to scrutiny following a significant rebellion by the Labour Party last summer. This led to the government abandoning plans to restrict eligibility for PIP and initiating a review overseen by DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms.
In response, a DWP spokeswoman emphasized ongoing efforts to revamp the welfare system, prioritize claimants’ support for securing stable employment, and eradicate poverty. The department’s modernization program aims to deliver comprehensive reforms alongside a review of PIP conducted by Sir Stephen Timms to ensure fairness and suitability for the future.