The UK government is introducing major changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which will affect hundreds of thousands of disabled and neurodivergent people. Whether you’re currently claiming PIP, thinking of applying, or just want to understand how these changes may impact your rights, this no-fluff guide breaks down what’s happening, what’s at risk, and where to find support.

What’s Changing With PIP?

From November 2026, the government plans to change how people qualify for the daily living component of PIP. Right now, people can qualify if they score a total of 8 points across multiple activities. Under the new rules, you’ll need to score at least 4 points in one single activity to get this support.

This sounds like a small change. But it’s a big deal.

The government says 9 in 10 current recipients will still qualify after reassessment. But experts, including the Office for Budget Responsibility, estimate that up to 800,000 people could lose their PIP award by 2029.

Who’s Affected?

If you currently receive PIP and:

Your award is due for review after November 2026
You score a mix of low-to-moderate points across different categories (but not 4 in any one)

…then you could be affected.

Even if you’re not reassessed straight away, the government plans to gradually re-evaluate every PIP recipient over the next few years. So even if you feel safe now, it’s worth preparing.

Pensioners

If you’re over 65 and already on PIP, you won’t be routinely reassessed unless your circumstances change. However, those approaching retirement age will still be subject to the new rules.

Terminal Illness

If you have less than 12 months to live, you’ll still be fast-tracked for PIP and exempt from these changes.

What Support Is Being Offered?

To ease the blow, the government says there will be a 13-week transitional payment for anyone who loses their PIP because of these reforms. That’s around three months of continued financial support before payments stop.

But critics say this isn’t enough—especially for people with ongoing care needs who may suddenly lose access to essential support or mobility payments.

The government is also investing in employment support schemes, such as:

Connect to Work: A new model being rolled out across England and Wales by the end of 2025, offering up to 12 months of personalised support for disabled people trying to enter or stay in work.
Additional caseworkers: Over 100 new staff have been hired to help process PIP reviews and reduce waiting times.
Access to Work reform: The support scheme is being reviewed and employers may be asked to take on more responsibility, but current backlogs remain an issue.

What About Appeals?

If you’re reassessed and lose your PIP award, you have the right to challenge the decision. Here’s the general process:

Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) – You must request this first. It means asking the DWP to look at your claim again. You’ll need to explain why the decision was wrong and provide any additional evidence.
Tribunal Appeal – If MR fails, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. These have a strong success rate, especially when claimants have support.

Currently, MR decisions are facing severe delays—some taking up to 9 months. Start early and keep all documentation safe.

How Do You Prepare?

Here’s what you can do now:

Check your current PIP score breakdown – Understand where your points come from and whether you score 4+ in any single activity.
Gather medical and professional evidence – Especially for activities where you rely on support, aids, or supervision.
Connect with local advice services – Citizens Advice, Scope, and Disability Rights UK offer tailored help.

Support and Resources

Disability Rights UK – PIP guidance
Scope – Benefits support and advice
Turn2Us – PIP eligibility checker
Citizens Advice – Appeal a PIP decision
Access to Work – GOV.UK
Connect to Work scheme info (gov.uk)
Purpl Benefits Calculator
Write to your MP

Final Thoughts

The PIP changes will affect thousands of people across the UK—and not just financially. Losing disability support can have a serious impact on your ability to live independently, travel, attend medical appointments, or afford the care you need.

At Purpl, we believe in protecting your rights and helping you get the support you’re legally entitled to. We’ll keep monitoring these changes and pushing for clarity, fairness, and access.

If you’re affected, you’re not alone—and you deserve to be heard.

Sammi is autistic, has ADHD, and lives with POTS. She’s passionate about disability advocacy, accessibility, and creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and understood. With a sharp sense of humour and a deep love for community, she speaks openly about the realities of being neurodivergent across all of her personal platforms, always aiming to challenge stigma, spark conversations, and remind others they’re not alone.

Other articles you might like:
What the UK Spending Review Means for Disabled People in the UK
PIP Changes 2025: Everything You Need to Know About the New Personal Independence Payment Rules
How are PIP Points Given? Understanding PIP Descriptors and Scoring for Maximum Benefits
Tell Your MP: Stop the PIP Cuts