DWP's PIP Claim Delays Criticized

A report by the United Kingdom — Public accounts committee has severely criticized the United Kingdom — Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for 'unacceptably poor service levels' and lengthy delays in processing Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims. The report reveals that only 51% of new PIP claims were processed within the target of 75 working days in 2024/25, falling short of the DWP's 75% goal. These delays are pushing disabled individuals into debt and poverty. The United Kingdom — Public accounts committee also noted that the DWP's target to process 20% of PIP claims online by 2026 has been delayed until 2029, which is deemed 'far too long'. Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, chairman of the United Kingdom — Public accounts committee, expressed disappointment, stating that reassurances for improvements three years ago have not materialized. The DWP acknowledged the issues and stated it is fixing the welfare system, redeploying work coaches, and implementing a £647 million modernization program. An ongoing review into PIP, led by Stephen Timms, is expected to conclude by autumn. Concerns were also raised about reduced United Kingdom — Universal Credit appointment times and outdated IT infrastructure within the DWP.