Government delays pose a serious risk of plunging benefit claimants into poverty, according to a group of MPs.
The Public Accounts Committee highlighted that some individuals are experiencing delays of more than a year in the processing of their claims for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
In a report released today, it was revealed that only 51% of PIP claims were processed within 75 working days during the 2024-25 period, falling short of the Department for Work and Pensions’ target of 75%.
The report emphasized the detrimental impact of prolonged waiting times on claimants, leading to potential debt and poverty. It criticized the lack of a viable short-term plan by the Department to address this issue.
MPs on the Committee shared instances of constituents waiting excessively long periods for claim processing, with some cases exceeding a year. The DWP acknowledged the severity of the situation despite it not reflecting in their own data.
Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, expressed disappointment in the DWP’s failure to provide timely services to disability claimants. He underlined the urgency for improvement, noting a significant delay in the promised enhancements.
The Committee urged the DWP to furnish detailed data on waiting times, including the longest delays recorded in 2024/25. PIP, a crucial disability benefit aiding with additional living expenses, caters to individuals in and out of employment.
PIP faced opposition last summer, prompting the government to retract plans to restrict eligibility. Instead, a review led by DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms is underway, with findings expected in the autumn.
A spokesperson from the DWP emphasized ongoing efforts to revamp the welfare system, support claimants in securing stable employment, and combat poverty. They highlighted the deployment of work coaches and comprehensive employment reforms as part of a modernization initiative.
The spokesperson reiterated the commitment to expedite PIP award decisions and assured that the Timms Review aims to ensure fairness and effectiveness for the future.