The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced updates on proposed changes to Personal Independent Payment (PIP) benefits, which are expected to impact around 800,000 individuals. The government has revealed that claimants affected by changes to the PIP daily living component will now receive 13 weeks of additional financial security under the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill. This additional protection aims to give people time to adapt, access new employment support, and plan for their future once their entitlement ends.

Moreover, more than 200,000 individuals with severe, lifelong conditions will be protected from future reassessment for Universal Credit entitlement. Those protected will also receive a higher rate of UC health top-up. However, the government plans to reduce the health rate of new Universal Credit claims to £50 from April 2026.

These changes come after Labour's announcement of a major overhaul to disability benefits, with proposed changes expected to take effect from November 2026. The impact of these changes on both new and existing claimants remains uncertain, but it is estimated that around 800,000 people will see a reduction in benefits.

Despite the government's intentions to provide additional protections and support, critics have labeled the changes as 'cruel' and 'unjust'. Various disability charities have expressed concerns about the impact of these cuts on disabled individuals, highlighting the potential consequences of pushing more people into poverty, hardship, and isolation.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall emphasized the need for reform in the social security system to ensure it supports those who can work while protecting those who cannot. She stated that the legislation represents a new social contract that aims to provide compassion, opportunity, and dignity to individuals in need.

Several disability charities, including Sense and Scope, have criticized the bill, calling it 'catastrophic' and urging MPs to reject the proposed changes. They argue that cutting benefits will have devastating effects on disabled individuals, impacting their health, ability to live independently, and work.

The Mental Health Foundation also expressed concerns about the impact of the bill on disabled people, particularly those with mental health problems. They emphasized the importance of evaluating the effectiveness of policies that encourage people to return to work, rather than implementing cuts that could be counterproductive and cruel.

During Prime Minister's Questions, opposition leaders raised concerns about the impact of these changes on disabled individuals and carers, emphasizing the need to support those who rely on these benefits. The debate around the proposed changes continues as MPs and advocacy groups assess the potential consequences for vulnerable populations.