DWP minister gives new update as PIP 'timeline' requested

DWP minister gives new update as PIP 'timeline' requested Sir Stephen Timms has confirmed the answer as he leads a review into PIP Fresh details have emerged over Personal Independence Payment applications for claimants. It follows a parliamentary question raised by an MP earlier this month. Darren Paffey, Labour MP for Southampton Itchen, asked: "To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what the timeline is for expanding the digital application option for Personal Independence Payment to all eligible claimants." Sir Stephen Timms, Labour MP for East Ham and Minister of State for Social Security and Disability, responded: "Through the Health Transformation Programme, we are expanding digital services for Personal Independence Payment customers. Over 90% of those making new PIP applications can now submit their health information online after starting their claim by phone. "This is benefiting customers by removing postage times and increasing accessibility. We are continuing to extend this option to all customers and, by the end of the Programme, customers will be able to view application progress and report a change of circumstances online, reducing their need to call the enquiry line." Timms Review into PIP Sir Stephen is presently overseeing a review into the future of PIP and has indicated that disabled people will be positioned "at the heart" of it. Dr Clenton Farquharson and Sharon Brennan have been appointed as co-chairs of the Timms Review, which was launched following the Government's decision to abandon parts of its flagship welfare Bill in 2024, which was designed to limit eligibility to PIP. Ministers have committed that any changes to PIP will be postponed until the review concludes. It is expected to deliver its recommendations this autumn. When the review was launched in October last year, Sir Stephen said: "We're ensuring disabled people and those with long-term health conditions can access the same opportunities, choices and chances as everyone else. "That's why we're putting them at the heart of the first ever full review of PIP – making sure it is fair and fit for the future. I'm delighted to welcome Dr Clenton Farquharson and Sharon Brennan as the Review's co-chairs and encourage people with lived experience to apply to be part of this important work." Dr Farquharson said: "We have an opportunity to ensure PIP reflects the everyday realities of disabled people's lives. I'm committed to working with my fellow co-chairs and the steering group so this benefit becomes something that empowers rather than frustrates: a system built on dignity, fairness, and trust." Ms Brennan said: "As a disabled person myself, I know from experience that disabled people are often disregarded on issues that affect them, so I am delighted that with this Review we will see them leading the conversation. "The Government's commitment to co-production of the Review will put the expertise and experience of disabled people at the heart of the important change we're determined to deliver."