The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a call for individuals with "firsthand" experience of Personal Independence Payments (PIP) to come forward, as a deadline looms for a major ministerial review. Britons are being urged to share their "evidence" for The Timms Review, but they only have a few days to complete their submissions before the May 28 deadline.
Background of the Timms Review
The review was launched after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was forced to back down in 2025 over proposed cuts to PIP, designed to reduce the welfare bill. The move led to a backbench revolt, which many critics felt undermined the Prime Minister's authority. Government data shows that spending on PIP is set to rise from £26 billion in 2024-25 to £45 billion by 2031. However, the review announced after the cuts were dropped is not focused on making savings, and officials say they want to involve as many people as possible.
Who Is Being Called to Submit Evidence?
Sir Stephen Timms, co-chairing the review, stated on X: "We want to hear from people who know this system firsthand: disabled people, carers, people working with organisations that represent or support disabled people. If you've claimed PIP, supported someone else to, or worked closely with PIP, we'd really like your insight." Sharon Brennan, another co-chair, added: "So please respond to the call for evidence by the 28th of May and share it with others, so that as many people's views and experiences as possible can help shape the future."
Timms emphasised that the views of disabled people and carers on the PIP system are particularly sought after because "we want to put lived experience at the heart of the review." However, other individuals such as doctors, researchers, and elected officials are also invited to share their perspectives as part of the system. Sir Stephen added: "We want to hear from anyone who has something to say about PIP." Evidence can include written submissions, existing data, or unpublished analysis or reports.
How to Submit and What Happens Next
People interested in responding to the call for evidence can do so online, via email, or by post. Once the call for evidence closes, the steering group working with the co-chairs will review what has been submitted, and a summary will be published by the DWP to shape the next stage of the review. The review is due to be shared with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in autumn 2026. Officials say the Timms Review is the first of its kind looking into the disability benefit since it was started.
Aims of the Review
The review is meant to ensure that PIP is "fair and fit for the future." It also aims to recommend ways the system can better support disabled people to have higher living standards and greater independence as they face rising costs in the modern world. PIP supports people with long-term disabilities and health conditions to help cover the added costs of living and reduced earning capacity that these conditions often cause. Officials say it is not means-tested to encourage people to try working without fearing it will automatically disqualify them for their benefits.
