Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps his Department is taking to help ensure accurate understanding among (a) claimants and (b) benefits advisers of Personal Independence Payment in relation to being a benefit linked with the extra costs of disability not employment status.

DWP raise awareness and understanding of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), for those who may be entitled, using a variety of methods:

Comprehensive information is provided on Gov.UK, and it is made clear that you can claim PIP even if you’re working, have savings or are getting most other benefits.

Meetings take place with various Disability Groups and external stakeholders where PIP is often a topic for discussion. Any presentations or Q&A sessions make it clear that PIP is there to support anyone who may be impacted by a disability or health condition and is not restricted by employment status.

We have also produced a series of useful video guides on PIP, hosted on YouTube. Links to the videos can also be accessed via Gov.UK.

The department has taken steps to raise awareness of PIP amongst Work Coaches, who frequently interact with claimants who have health conditions and disabilities. As part of their routine induction and training Work Coaches are provided with an overview of PIP. They are encouraged to signpost potential applicants to information on Gov.UK rather than discuss eligibility criteria.

For DWP colleagues working on other benefits the approach is the same. If anyone enquires about PIP they are signposted to information on Gov.UK.