DWP Data Shows Phone Consultations Dominate PIP Assessments
New statistics released by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have revealed that the vast majority of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments are currently being conducted remotely via telephone. This comes as the government outlines plans to significantly increase the number of in-person assessments under new welfare reform proposals. Over 3.9 million people across England and Wales currently receive PIP payments, which range from £29.20 to £187.45 each week, equating to £116.80 or £749.80 every four-week pay period.
Government Plans to Boost Face-to-Face Assessments
Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, has previously stated that the DWP "will increase the number of health professionals in assessment centres" to "increase the number of face-to-face, rather than remote, PIP assessments". The latest figures, released in response to an enquiry from Conservative shadow work and pensions spokesperson Helen Whately, show that in September last year, around 68,000 (77.5%) PIP assessments were conducted over the phone, 12,000 (13.8%) were paper-based, 4,400 (5%) in person and 3,300 (3.7%) by video call.
In his written response, Sir Stephen said: "In the recent Autumn Budget, the government reinforced a commitment it made in the Pathways to Work Green Paper, to increase face-to-face assessments for disability benefits." He added that all assessment suppliers have contractual requirements to raise the proportion of assessments conducted in person, with progress regularly reviewed. The department is working closely with suppliers to boost capacity, focusing on recruiting suitably qualified health professionals to support delivery in assessment centres.
Understanding the PIP Assessment Process
The PIP assessment is not a diagnosis of your condition or a medical examination, but rather an opportunity to discuss how your condition impacts you. A health professional will conduct the assessment, prepare a report and submit it to the DWP decision maker. The DWP will consider evidence from the assessment when deciding whether you should be awarded PIP. If you're awaiting a review, it's advisable to have a copy of your PIP evidence form with you for telephone, video and face-to-face assessments, allowing you to refer back to it, particularly if it was completed several years ago.
Essential Tips for Your PIP Assessment
Whether your assessment is conducted by phone, video or in person, being well-prepared is crucial. Here are key tips to help you navigate the process effectively:
- Discuss Your Daily Impact: Be ready to explain how your condition affects you day-to-day, even if you've already outlined it on your PIP evidence form. Describe what you have difficulty with, what a bad day is like, and how you manage tasks.
- Take Your Time: Don't let the assessor rush you. Pause, reflect and reply thoughtfully. Break down your answers step-by-step to create an accurate picture of how your disability or health condition impacts you.
- Avoid Yes/No Answers: Try not to just answer 'yes' or 'no' to questions. Always explain how doing something would make you feel afterwards and the impact it can have if you had to do it repeatedly.
- Be Mindful of Observations: The assessor will form judgements from what you say and do. For example, if you mention travelling by bus without clarification, they might assume you can travel independently. Clarify any limitations.
- Don't Overexert: In face-to-face assessments, you may be asked to perform physical tasks. Don't feel obliged to do things you wouldn't ordinarily be capable of. If you're not comfortable, make it known.
Support and Accommodations Available
You are permitted to have someone with you during your assessment, whether by phone, video or in person. For phone assessments, remember to put the call on loudspeaker and inform the assessor who is accompanying you. For face-to-face assessments, you can bring someone aged 16 or over, such as a friend, family member or carer, who can participate in conversations and take notes on your behalf.
Prior to attending a face-to-face assessment, confirm with your assessment provider that the centre offers everything you require. You can request accommodations such as:
- Checking if there's a lift for wheelchair access if stairs are present.
- Asking about room sizes if you get anxious in enclosed spaces.
- Requesting an interpreter or signer at least two working days in advance.
- Asking for an assessor of the same gender if that's important to you.
- Inquiring about audio recording the assessment, noting you must request this three days prior.
If the assessment location is more than 90 minutes away by public transport and you have difficulty travelling long distances, you might be offered an alternative location or home visit. Refer to the published guidance on GOV.UK for travel restriction advice specific to England, Scotland and Wales.
Looking Ahead: A Shift in Assessment Methods
Through these measures, the DWP aims to meet the government priority to increase the proportion of face-to-face PIP assessments to 30% from 5% in 2024. This represents a significant shift from the current remote-dominated model, potentially affecting millions of claimants who rely on these vital payments. As the department works to recruit more health professionals and enhance assessment centre capacity, claimants should stay informed about their rights and preparation strategies to ensure their needs are accurately represented during assessments.
