New Personal Independence Payments Tool -Helping Claimants Access

A new tool, the PIP Helper, has been launched by the charity Turn2us to address the complex and stressful process of claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The tool aims to assist individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions in accessing much-needed financial support. This initiative comes in response to a startling report showing nearly £900 million worth of PIP goes unclaimed each year.

This article explores what the PIP Helper offers, why it’s needed, and its potential impact on claimants.

Understanding PIP

PIP is a non-means-tested benefit that provides financial support to individuals whose disabilities or health conditions create additional living expenses. Payments range from £28.70 to £184.30 per week, depending on the claimant’s needs for daily living and mobility assistance.

PIP Component	Rate Type	Weekly Amount (£)
Daily Living	Standard	68.10 – 73.90
Daily Living	Enhanced	101.75 – 110.40
Mobility	Standard	26.90 – 29.20
Mobility	Enhanced	71.05 – 77.05

These payments aim to cover extra costs related to healthcare, transportation, and assistive devices.

PIP Process

Claiming PIP has been widely criticized for being overly complicated and mentally draining. Applicants must follow a multi-step process:

1. Call a DWP helpline to start their claim.
2. Complete a lengthy application form detailing their condition and needs.
3. Attend a medical assessment, often conducted by private sector providers.

The assessment determines the claimant’s eligibility and the rates they qualify for, based on their ability to perform daily activities and move around. However, this process is notorious for being overwhelming, especially for individuals with invisible disabilities like mental health conditions.

A report by the National Audit Office estimates that £870 million worth of PIP goes unclaimed each year because many eligible individuals either give up or fail to complete the application process.

Role of the PIP Helper

The PIP Helper is a free online tool designed to simplify the application process. It offers:

• Step-by-step guidance: Clear instructions for each stage of the claim, including framing answers effectively.
• Practical checklists: Helps applicants prepare all necessary documents and information.
• Wellbeing support: A focus on reducing the mental stress often associated with applying for PIP.

The tool was co-created with PIP claimants to ensure it directly addresses the issues faced by applicants.

Claimant Experiences

Many users have praised the PIP Helper for its simplicity and support:

• Jo, a claimant with chronic myeloid leukemia, shared:
  “The tool makes an overwhelming process manageable. It’s practical, clear, and created by people who understand the system.”
• Alicia, living with bipolar disorder, emphasized the mental relief it provided:
  “For those of us with invisible disabilities, this tool is essential. It offers guidance and emotional support throughout the process.”

Bigger Picture

Shelley Hopkinson, head of policy and influencing at Turn2us, stresses that the stressful and inaccessible nature of the PIP system is a significant barrier. She notes that the process can worsen people’s health and prevent them from getting the help they need.

Hopkinson calls on the government to reform the PIP system to make it:

• Supportive: Focused on helping claimants rather than deterring them.
• Accessible: Easy to navigate for all, regardless of disability type.
• Stigma-free: Treats claimants with dignity and respect.

The PIP Helper serves as an example of how incorporating claimant feedback can create effective solutions.

PIP Helper

1. Visit the Turn2us website to access the tool.
2. Follow the step-by-step guidance provided.
3. Use the checklists to prepare your documents and application answers.
4. Seek additional advice from Turn2us if needed.

With its comprehensive support, the PIP Helper is expected to increase successful claims and reduce the vast amount of unclaimed benefits.

The tool is a promising development for individuals struggling with the burdensome PIP process, providing them with the resources they need to secure financial stability.

FAQs