Kidney Care UK have submitted evidence to the government’s review of Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Our submission, based on our extensive experience of supporting people through the system, sets out how the PIP system needs to change.
The PIP review team, led by the Minister Sir Stephen Timms, is investigating how to make the benefit fairer and more responsive to the needs of people it is supposed to support. Thank you to everyone who sent in their views to the review’s call for evidence.
Kidney Care UK’s evidence shared how stressful and overwhelming the PIP application process can be:
I’m concerned by the amount of time and money that is being wasted by not giving people proper correct decisions earlier. I cannot count the amounts of times someone has not been awarded anything during the original claim, or at Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) stage, but is then awarded enhanced rate daily living and mobility at Tribunal Stage. Something is clearly very wrong.Quote from a Kidney Care UK Patient Support Regional Manager, included in our submission
Our submission included recommendations that we believe would lead to a more humane and effective system:
- Assessments must be carried out by people who understand kidney disease.
- Good quality assessments require adequate time, which will also improve decision making.
- Build trust into the system – acknowledge and apologise for errors, do not allow assumptions to lead to bad decision making.
- Recognise the extra costs of living with kidney disease, including heating, travel, parking and special diets.
- Use digital tools to simplify the process, making applications quicker and simpler.
The Timms review will use the evidence it has received to inform its final recommendations to government. The review is due to finish in autumn 2026. No changes will be made to PIP until after the review finishes.
We will share updates on the review and continue our work to try and improve the PIP system, so that people can receive the support they need in a timely and respectful way.
Help from Kidney Care UK
If you are struggling with the financial challenges of living with kidney disease, Kidney Care UK's Cost of living information hub has resources to help you.
Need advice or support with living with kidney disease? Call our Support Line on 0808 801 00 00, email us at [email protected] or fill in our support request form to speak to a member of the Kidney Care UK team.
Our free digital helper tools can also help you through the process of claiming PIP or its equivalent in Scotland, ADP (Adult Disability Payment).