Overview

• The DWP has guaranteed that the 3.7 million current PIP recipients will keep passported benefits such as Blue Badges, free bus travel and Carer’s Allowance under the planned reforms.
• The tighter four-point assessment threshold will apply solely to new PIP applications from November 2026.
• No changes to PIP eligibility will be enacted until Sir Stephen Timms completes a comprehensive review of the assessment process by Autumn 2026.
• Key amendments to the welfare reform bill were made after Labour backbenchers and disability advocates raised concerns over potential losses of support.
• Disability charities warn that even with safeguards for existing claimants, the overhaul could still disadvantage people with invisible or fluctuating conditions.