Major changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could see up to £5 billion cut from the UK welfare system by 2030, with as many as 1.2 million people at risk of losing their benefits. However, according to a new report by the Resolution Foundation, people with certain health conditions like autism, cerebral palsy, and learning disabilities may be less likely to lose their support.
The changes are part of the government’s Pathways to Work Green Paper, which plans to overhaul PIP and other sickness-related benefits by November 2026.
What Is PIP?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a non-means-tested benefit for people aged 16 to retirement age who have a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition. It is given in two parts:
- Daily Living Component – for people who need help with tasks like eating, dressing, or washing
- Mobility Component – for those who need help moving around
- Each part can be paid at either a standard or enhanced rate, based on how many points a person scores in their assessment.
What’s Changing in the PIP System?
The government plans to tighten the eligibility rules, meaning fewer people will qualify for support. Under the new proposals:
- People must score at least 4 points in one heading to qualify for the Daily Living element
- People who score lower points across many small activities (e.g., using aids to cook, bathe, or dress) may not qualify at all
- The reforms aim to push more people into work, reducing the number of long-term claimants
- According to the Resolution Foundation, this could mean:
- 800,000 to 1.2 million people losing PIP payments
- Losses of up to £6,300 a year per person if they currently receive enhanced Daily Living payments
Who Is Most Likely to Lose PIP Support?
Those most at risk include people with lower-level needs spread across different tasks—those who use aids but are not totally dependent on others.
People with conditions that don’t cause serious daily challenges may fall below the new scoring system and lose their Daily Living payments.
3 Health Conditions Least Likely to Be Affected
According to the Resolution Foundation’s research, people with the following conditions are most likely to keep their PIP benefits, even under the new rules:
- Autism
- Cerebral Palsy
- Learning Disabilities
Why? Because people with these conditions usually score 21 points or more in assessments—well above the new 4-point-per-section rule. They often experience severe difficulties in at least one daily living task.
How Much Is PIP Now Paying (April 2025)?
Following the 1.7% inflation increase, these are the current weekly rates for PIP:
- Daily Living Component
- Standard: £73.90
- Enhanced: £110.40
- Mobility Component
- Standard: £29.20
- Enhanced: £77.05
A person receiving both enhanced rates will now get £812.28 per month, or £9,747.40 per year.
What Does the Government Say?
Work and Pensions Minister Sir Stephen Timms said the changes are not being rushed and will be handled “in a managed and compassionate way.”
He added:
“The cost of PIP has increased by £2 billion above inflation each year for the past five years. This is not sustainable. We need to target support at those who need it most.”
The UK government is proposing big changes to the Personal Independence Payment system, aimed at saving £5 billion by cutting support for those with lower-level needs. While many people could lose up to £6,300 a year, those with severe or complex conditions like autism, cerebral palsy, and learning disabilities are more likely to continue receiving help.
The DWP has said that the reforms will be gradual, but experts warn this could lead to a huge income shock for thousands of low-income households. If you’re a PIP claimant, stay informed, check your assessment points, and take part in upcoming consultations if you can.
FAQ’s
How many people could lose PIP under the new plans?
Between 800,000 and 1.2 million people could lose PIP support by 2030, according to the Resolution Foundation.
Which health conditions are least likely to be affected by PIP cuts?
People with autism, cerebral palsy, and learning disabilities are most likely to keep their PIP benefits under the new system.
What are the current PIP payment rates from April 2025?
From April 2025, the enhanced daily living rate is £110.40 and enhanced mobility rate is £77.05 per week.
When will the PIP changes come into effect?
The proposed changes could begin as early as November 2026, subject to legislation and consultation.
Will PIP become means-tested under the new plans?
No. The DWP has confirmed PIP will remain a non-means-tested benefit, regardless of income or employment status.
