**DWP Calls on PIP and Universal Credit Claimants to Shape Future of Disability Benefits**
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has launched a major public consultation on proposed changes to disability benefits, urging those most likely to be affected—including Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit claimants—to actively contribute their views before key decisions are made.
The appeal comes amid wide-reaching plans to reform the benefits system, as part of the UK Government’s ambition to create what it describes as a “modern welfare state” that both supports people facing health challenges and tackles escalating costs. With the consultation opened on 7 April and running until 30 June 2025, the DWP says now is a critical time for individuals, families, and supporting charities to help shape the new support framework.
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, highlighted the need for people with lived experience to be at the centre of these reforms. “We inherited a broken welfare system, one that often acts as a barrier instead of a bridge back to work,” Sir Stephen stated. He stressed the government’s determination to listen directly to disabled people and those with long-term health conditions, adding: “It is essential that their voices are heard as we redesign a system to work for everyone—claimants, the economy, and taxpayers.”
The reforms come under the wider “Plan for Change” programme and remain a key priority after the government announced its intention to overhaul the benefits system in March. The proposals have sought to address multiple objectives: making access to employment easier for those who can work, improving the quality of life for those unable to work, and ensuring long-term sustainability of the welfare state.
While promoting the consultation, ministers have formed what they call ‘collaboration committees’, aiming to foster closer engagement with disabled people, advocacy groups, and employers from different sectors. This, they say, will allow for recommendations grounded in real-world experience rather than theoretical policy.
Forecasts put the future annual cost of disability and sickness benefits as high as £70 billion by the end of this decade if the current system remains unchanged. The DWP warns that these growing expenses risk undermining the entire support system, potentially making it unsustainable for future generations.
Among the main features of the reform proposals are simplification of existing processes—such as reducing unnecessary assessments and bureaucratic hurdles—and delivering more bespoke employment support. The DWP argues that such changes will put dignity and respect at the heart of the system, making it easier for claimants to get the right help swiftly.
Another area under consideration is the reassessment of incapacity benefit claimants who, according to medical evidence, may be able to return to the workforce. Ministers say this move is not about forcing people into jobs but about giving everyone the chance to thrive with the necessary backing.
The consultation also seeks views on whether benefits like Personal Independence Payment should be more tightly targeted towards those with higher needs and on possible adjustments to Universal Credit payment structures. Some campaigners and advocacy groups have expressed concern, asking for assurances that changes will not leave vulnerable people worse off.
In its official statement, the DWP pointed out, “One in three people in the UK faces a long-term health condition. We need a welfare system that provides genuine chances to return to or stay in work, supporting people in line with their capacities and aspirations.”
The government is encouraging anyone with views or experience of PIP, Universal Credit, or other disability benefits to participate via the GOV.UK consultation page before the 30 June deadline. By taking part, individuals can help to influence decisions that could shape the future of welfare support across the country.
As the consultation progresses, the debate about the adequacy, sustainability, and fairness of welfare provision is set to intensify. The outcome will be key to determining how the UK supports its disabled citizens in years to come, and who will be entitled to which level of support.