Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a crucial source of financial aid for disabled people and those with long-term health conditions in the UK. This support helps mitigate the substantial additional living costs that disabled individuals face, which average £1,010 more per month compared to non-disabled households. Despite PIP’s importance, nearly one-third of disabled individuals in the UK live in poverty. The complex application process is a significant barrier, leading to an estimated £870 million in unclaimed benefits each year due to incomplete claims or eligible individuals not receiving higher payments.
Turn2us, a prominent UK charity dedicated to combating poverty and financial insecurity, has introduced the Turn2us PIP Helper—an innovative tool designed to make the PIP application process more accessible and effective.
What is the Turn2us PIP Helper?
The Turn2us PIP Helper is a free, comprehensive tool that provides step-by-step assistance for individuals navigating the PIP application process. Developed over two years with direct input from PIP claimants, the tool aims to eliminate confusion, streamline the application process, and empower users to make accurate and complete claims.
Key Features of the PIP Helper
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Checker | Helps users determine if they qualify for PIP. |
| Estimate of Entitlements | Provides an estimate of potential PIP amounts users may be eligible to receive. |
| Personalised Tips | Offers tailored advice for accurately completing application forms. |
| Assessment Preparation | Prepares claimants for assessments by explaining what to expect and how to answer questions effectively. |
| Mental Wellbeing Support | Includes videos and reminders aimed at reducing stigma and isolation, supporting mental health. |
Michael Clarke, head of information programmes at Turn2us, stated, “The Turn2us PIP Helper was developed in response to the significant barriers many people face in accessing support. Built over two years with direct input from PIP claimants, this tool addresses those barriers head-on. Health, disability and financial security are deeply connected, and we are committed to helping people access the support they urgently need.”
Simplifying the PIP Process
The current PIP application process can be daunting. With a long, complex form and dense language, many applicants struggle, particularly those with mental health challenges. Stephen Buckley, head of information for Mind, highlighted this issue: “The benefits system should be there for all of us when we need it most. Right now, too many people are having their mental health problems compounded by the very system which should be helping them.”
Mind collaborated with Turn2us in developing the PIP Helper to address these challenges, ensuring that individuals with lived experience of mental health issues played a key role in shaping the tool.
PIP Applications
Several factors contribute to incomplete PIP applications:
- Complexity of Forms: The length and technical language used can deter applicants.
- Lack of Guidance: Without assistance, many individuals are unsure how to properly fill out the form or provide sufficient detail.
- Mental Health Barriers: Anxiety and stress related to applying can lead to applicants abandoning the process.
Potential Benefits
The PIP Helper not only simplifies the application process but also aims to:
- Reduce Dropout Rates: By clarifying the process and reducing stress.
- Improve Financial Security: By helping claimants secure the correct level of support.
- Enhance Mental Wellbeing: Through integrated videos and supportive messages.
Stephen Buckley added, “We’re pleased to have worked with Turn2us to address these issues with this online tool, which we hope will help more people applying for PIP get the support they need.”
Disability Support
The PIP Helper’s launch comes at a crucial time as the UK government prepares broader health and disability policy reforms for next year. Buckley urged the government to focus on new, inclusive strategies: “It is vital that people with lived experience of mental health problems were put at the heart of developing the tool. We would urge them not to take forward the previous government’s proposals and instead to establish an independent commission led by disabled people to design the future of assessments.”
FAQs
What is the Turn2us PIP Helper?
A tool that simplifies the PIP application process with guidance and support.
Who developed the PIP Helper?
Turn2us, with input from PIP claimants over two years.
What are the key features of the PIP Helper?
Eligibility checker, personalised tips, and mental wellbeing support.
Why do many PIP applications go uncompleted?
Due to complex forms, lack of guidance, and mental health challenges.
Where can I access the PIP Helper?
Visit pip.turn2us.org.uk to use the tool.
