A government-commissioned review led by social security minister Sir Stephen Timms has recommended that disability benefit claimants continue receiving cash payments rather than services, and face only a "light-touch initial assessment" when claiming personal independence payment (Pip). The draft proposals, published ahead of a full report this autumn, come despite mounting political pressure over the rising cost of welfare, and have drawn criticism from Conservatives who argue the review fails to address abuse of the system or deliver savings.

The number of Pip claimants in England and Wales passed four million for the first time this year, roughly double the 2019 figure, with spending rising from £16.3 billion in 2019/20 to £27.3 billion in 2024/25 and forecast to hit £41.5 billion by 2030/31. Despite these costs, the review stopped short of recommending a shift from cash to support services, instead proposing more face-to-face and digital assessments plus allowing carers and family members to submit evidence on claimants' behalf. Shadow work and pensions secretary Helen Whately branded the review "a wasted opportunity", while charities such as the MS Society welcomed it as reflecting disabled people's views. Individual Pip payments currently range from £30.30 to £194.60 per week depending on need.