More than 40% of applications for Personal Independence Payment (Pip) from people with multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and arthritis are being rejected, according to an analysis of Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) data for England and Wales. The figures, covering August 2023 to January 2024, show that one in four claims from amputees are also turned down.
The Observer's analysis reveals that 45% of Pip applications based on MS were rejected, equating to almost 1,100 out of 2,451 decisions. Charlotte Gill of the MS Society said the assessment has been failing people for over a decade, adding that Pip is essential for managing the extra costs of the condition. Michelle Cardno, a welfare benefit lawyer, noted that assessors often believe prostheses can be worn constantly, ignoring issues like rubbing and discomfort.
Other high rejection rates include 40% for osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis, 40% for PTSD, and 30% for Huntington's disease or Parkinson's. Half of all cerebral palsy claims were rejected, along with nearly half of spina bifida claims and nearly 40% of muscular dystrophy claims. One in five cancer applicants were rejected, including nearly half of testicular cancer cases and a third of prostate cancer cases.
Endometriosis had one of the highest rejection rates at over 70%. Claire Kelleher of Endometriosis UK said Pip can be crucial for those with the condition. Across all Pip applications in the period, 54% were accepted and 46% rejected. A DWP spokesperson said the system is being modernised to better target those who need it most.
