PIP Assessment Shake-Up: New Providers and a Focus on Efficiency

From September, the way Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Work Capability Assessments (WCA) are conducted will undergo significant changes for residents of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has awarded new contracts for regional assessments, effective from 2024 to 2029, with a shift towards a single assessment approach for all benefits requiring a functional health assessment.

Previously, PIP assessments were handled by Atos (also known as IAS) and Capita, while Maximus managed WCAs. This new approach will see a single company conducting both types of assessments within each region, aiming to streamline the process.

The new providers for each region are:

Scotland and North England: Maximus UK Services Limited (previously Atos)

Midlands and Wales: Capita Business Services (previously Capita)

South West England: Serco (previously Atos)

South East England, London and East Anglia: Ingeus UK Limited (previously Atos)

Northern Ireland: Capita Business Services (previously Capita)

This move aligns with the DWP's Health Transformation programme, which seeks to simplify and modernise the assessment process for disability benefits.

Alongside these changes, the DWP has announced plans to improve the Video Assessment application, allowing all disability health benefit consultations to be recorded. While this has not yet been implemented, individuals can currently request an audio recording of their PIP assessment.

Data released through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request revealed that Capita audio-recorded 1.4% of PIP assessments between January and June 2024, while IAS recorded just 0.17% of assessments. This discrepancy highlights the need for transparency and consistency in recording practices.

Further streamlining efforts include the introduction of a shorter PIP review form for those with a "light-touch" award, typically lasting five to ten years. The DWP has also confirmed that most individuals approaching the end of their 10-year PIP award will not require a face-to-face assessment.

The DWP also reported that out of 521 "light-touch" reviews conducted since August 2023, 508 were completed without a health professional assessment. Only three reviews resulted in a reduction in PIP entitlement.

These changes signify a shift towards more efficient and streamlined assessments for PIP and WCA, with a focus on utilising technology and reducing unnecessary face-to-face consultations. However, ensuring fairness, transparency, and access to support for individuals undergoing these assessments remains crucial.