Millions of Benefit Claimants Overdue for Reviews, Government Admits
Nearly two million individuals receiving sickness benefits may not be eligible, with reassessments delayed by an average of two years.
Approximately two million individuals receiving sickness benefits may not be eligible for the payments, as over two-thirds of these claimants are overdue for reassessment, according to a recent report. The average waiting time for these crucial check-ins has stretched to two years.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden acknowledged that some individuals have effectively disappeared into the welfare system, continuing to receive taxpayer funds without adequate oversight. An investigation by The Times revealed a case where one person received payments for 16 years without their health status being re-examined.
This situation arises amidst significant pressure on ministers to reform the welfare system to reduce the number of claimants and curb government spending. McFadden suggested the current system makes it too easy for individuals to be 'signed off and written off,' leading to prolonged reliance on benefits without re-evaluation.
Ministers are reportedly developing welfare reforms that could involve altering the health element of Universal Credit for some individuals under 25. Instead of direct cash payments, those with less severe conditions might receive enhanced support for employment, including subsidized jobs and mental health assistance.
Potential changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system are also under consideration, following two long-awaited reviews. However, such reforms may face opposition from within the Prime Minister's own party, mirroring a previous instance where planned cuts to disability benefits were abandoned due to backbench rebellion.
The number of individuals entitled to PIP has reached a record high, with 4.09 million people claiming the benefit as of July 31, 2026. This represents a 7% increase from the previous year and roughly a doubling of claimants since January 2019. Of current claimants, 83% are of working age.
A government-commissioned review, led by social security minister Sir Stephen Timms, described the existing disability benefits system as 'no longer fit for purpose' in its interim findings. The review highlighted the need for 'fundamental change' to ensure the system's financial sustainability. While the final report's recommendations, including potential impacts on claimant numbers, remain to be seen, the review noted that the vital support PIP provides could be threatened if costs continue to escalate.
A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson stated that the government recognizes the need to reform the work capability assessment process, which has experienced a surge in demand. Efforts have been made to increase face-to-face assessments, with the proportion nearly doubling in the past two years, prioritizing new claimants and those reporting changes in their circumstances.