𝓤𝓷𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓝𝓮𝔀𝓼

The results of a trial for the digital self-serve system found that the number of people registering for PIP increased by 22% over the first year. There was also a 7% increase in the volume of successful applications that were awarded PIP over the first 19 weeks of the trial, data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) revealed.

However, it’s triggered fury from some quarters – including Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Helen Whately, who insisted all PIP assessments “should be face-to-face”.

An evaluation by the DWP suggested that applicants found it easier to apply online, as making a phone call required them to “be in the right headspace or having to work up the confidence to begin the application”, while written applications were seen as “daunting”. The online application, by comparison, resulted in “lower levels of stress and anxiety around completing their application” and was more flexible and convenient, the evaluation said.

But as ministers continue their attempts to curtail the growing benefits bill, the evaluation said there was now “robust evidence that Digital Self-Serve would lead to a substantial increase in the number of PIP applications”.

PIP is one of the main benefits which can be claimed by disabled people in the UK. It is designed to help people with long-term health conditions or disabilities with their living costs.

The Government had to curb plans last year, which would have overhauled assessment criteria for PIP, after the threat of a rebellion by Labour backbenchers who believed it could have unfairly forced some disabled people into work.

Helen Whately said: “The last thing we need is DWP encouraging online assessments – opening up a benefits Pandora’s box with ever easier access.

“Sickness benefits are intended to help people with serious disabilities, and claiming them should not be a tick-box exercise to get extra welfare instead of working.

“The Government has no grip over the welfare system. Keir Starmer has caved to his left-wing backbenchers, abandoning reforms and lifting the two-child cap.

“Only the Conservatives have a plan to get welfare under control and save £23 billion.”