DWP launches first PIP review with coproduction and steering group

The Department for Work and Pensions has launched the first full review of Personal Independence Payment, appointing Dr Clenton Farquharson and Sharon Brennan as co-chairs alongside Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms and opening recruitment for a 12‑member steering group. The Timms Review, announced this week, will examine PIP’s assessment process and its role in supporting disabled people’s independence and access to wider benefits, with a final report due to the Secretary of State by Autumn 2026 and an interim update expected beforehand.

PIP, a non-means-tested cash benefit intended to help with extra costs arising from long-term illness or disability, currently supports about 3.8 million people. The review will cover both the daily living and mobility components of PIP and will consider whether assessment criteria fairly reflect the impact of conditions in today’s workplaces and communities. DWP officials said no further changes to eligibility will be made until the review reports, and the department has clarified there are no plans to convert PIP to a means-tested payment.

Dr Farquharson and Ms Brennan bring sector experience to the role. DWP...