UK Government's PIP reform proposals

The UK Government has recently issued a Green Paper consultation on proposed reforms to Personal Independence Payments (PIP).  Their aim is to cut expenditure on this vital benefit and this move signals what could be the biggest shakeup in the benefits system since PIP was introduced ten years ago. 

The proposed changes are, understandably, very concerning and we have heard from several of you about how worried you are.  While we agree that the news is troubling, it is important to remember that this is a green paper at present, which means that it is at consultation stage and nothing will change immediately. 

However, this consultation is critical for all of us as it is your opportunity to let the Government know what you think.  The proposed reforms could have far-reaching implications that may impact the daily lives and wellbeing of countless individuals who rely on PIP to help mitigate the additional costs of living with a disability.  That is why it is more important than ever for us to make our voices heard and your feedback really matters. By participating in the consultation, you have the opportunity to directly influence decisions that will impact your life. 

We understand that engaging with government consultations can feel overwhelming but there are a number of resources online to help you understand the changes that are being proposed.  We have listed a few from notable organisation below, which provide useful summaries of the Government’s paper as well as outlining their objections to the proposals:

Disability Rights UK 

Benefits and Work 

Inclusion London

UPDATE 08/05/2024: Disability Assist joins other Disabled Peoples Organisations in signing Disability Rights UK's letter to the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak. The letter condemns the Government's actions against disabled peoples' rights. You can read further information and the letter on Disability Rights UK's website here.

You can download the Government's Modernising Support for Independent Living: The Health and Disability Green Paper here.  

We encourage you, if you feel able, to take part in the consultation, which is open until 22nd July 2024.  It is important to note that the consultation website does not ask for your name or any other personal details.

The future of the benefits system depends on the collective action we take now. Let's make it count.  Please click the link below to take part in the consultation.

Go to the Consultation

If you are struggling with your mental health in the wake of this news, please contact one of the organisations below who will be able to help you:           

Mental Health Matters – Kent & Medway : https://www.mhm.org.uk/helpline-webchat 

Live Well Kent: https://livewellkent.org.uk/ or call 0800 567 7699 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)

Samaritans: call 116 123. You can also email jo@samaritans.org.uk and someone will respond within 24 hours

NHS helpline: Call 111 and select option 2 for mental health support