Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Justin Tomlinson and Matt Vickers

Monday 17th May 2021 Commons Chamber

[Matt Vickers (Stockton South) (Con)]

What plans she has to review the application process for personal independence payment awards.

[The Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work (Justin Tomlinson)]

We are currently reviewing the application process for all personal independence payment claimants. Building on our covid response PIP 2 online service, whereby claimants can receive and submit their PIP 2 online, we are in the early stages of developing a new end-to-end application process and plan to test it later this year.

[Matt Vickers]

As we return to normality, what steps are being taken to ensure that PIP claimants are assessed promptly, so that those in need of support can access it as quickly as possible?

[Justin Tomlinson]

I am conscious that my hon. Friend has raised some specific cases directly with me. As we return to normality, we have received more claims than normal. We are working hard to get through those as quickly as possible, with average clearance times slightly up from 16 to 19 weeks. As face-to-face assessments start to return, those unable to be assessed through paper-based reviews, telephone or video assessments will be prioritised.