Displaying items by tag: PIP payments

Major changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system are set to affect hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people across the UK. The Government’s welfare reform, due to begin in 2026, will raise the threshold for eligibility for the daily living component of PIP - a benefit that supports individuals with disabilities and their carers. Under the new system, claimants must score at least four points in one assessed activity to qualify. By 2029/30, around 800,000 people are expected to lose this benefit, with 150,000 also losing their carer’s allowance. Critics say that these reforms prioritise cost savings over care and compassion. Veteran MP Diane Abbott described the legislation as 'cruel and misconceived’, warning that it will push disabled individuals into further hardship and fear. With weekly payments of up to £110.40 at stake, the changes could leave many struggling to cope financially and emotionally. Disability campaigners and church leaders are calling for justice, dignity, and adequate provision for society’s most vulnerable.

The Motability scheme, which provides cars to disabled people in exchange for disability benefits, has removed over 11,000 vehicles since 2022 due to misuse. Cases of abuse, including sub-leasing cars, running taxis, or food deliveries, have risen from seven to 15 per day. Motability Operations attributes this rise to an increase in eligible customers, from 650,000 in 2022 to 815,000 in 2023. Disability rights groups defend the scheme, calling it life-changing for many. However, critics argue the system is exploited by friends or family of claimants. Motability Operations is reviewing the number of drivers per vehicle and increasing tracking to counter misuse. Some accuse claimants of freeloading, but recipients highlight rigorous eligibility criteria and the necessity of these vehicles. Experts emphasise the scheme's value, with fraud in the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system reportedly at zero.