Record 4.1 million PIP claimants intensify UK welfare reform pressure

The number of people in England and Wales receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has reached a record 4.09 million, intensifying pressure on the government to reform the disability benefit system. Official figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show the total rose by 262,045, or 7%, in the year to July 31, 2026. The surge in claimants comes as the government prepares for a major overhaul of the benefit. A government-commissioned review led by social security minister Sir Stephen Timms concluded in its interim findings that the PIP system is "not fit for purpose." The final report from the Timms Review is expected to be published in the autumn and will lay the foundation for potential changes to eligibility and assessment methods. Spending on PIP has risen sharply, from £16.3 billion in 2019-20 to £27.3 billion in 2024-25. It is forecast to reach £41.5 billion by 2030-31. The Prime Minister's official spokesperson stated the government is focused on "tackling the structural drivers" of welfare costs but emphasized this does not mean "crude cuts that simply push people into crisis.