DWP forced to review PIP cases as many claimants due massive benefits payout

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. open image in gallery Labour DWP secretary Liz Kendall The new rules mean that if someone needs ‘prompting’ – defined as “reminding, encouraging or explaining, from a person trained or experienced in assisting people in social situations” – to engage with other people face to face, they will be classed as needing ‘social support’ and awarded more points than previously. “This has changed my life in a way I can’t even articulate, I’ve been able to buy a car for my family, pay off debt and can afford to live day to day without any fear of running out of money, it’s made a phenomenal difference to my whole family’s life.” Here’s how to check if you are eligible for a backdated PIP payment and what action you may need to take: Am I eligible for a backdated PIP back payment? Official guidance states that the DWP reviewing cases where additional points for this activity “may make a material difference to the amount of PIP claimants’ are entitled to.” The department says that claimants who think they may be eligible do not need to contact their advisers, and should wait for them to get in touch. “Reviews are continuing at pace, and we are contacting people who might be affected.” However, the Benefits and Work group says claimants may want to consider getting in touch anyway, in case they get missed.