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The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released new figures showing that individuals with conditions like acne and writer’s cramp have received Personal Independence Payments (PIP).
According to the latest data, 13 individuals were awarded enhanced mobility PIP, which amounts to approximately £77 per week for these specific conditions in April.
Breakdown of Payments for Acne and Writer’s Cramp
Out of the 13 recipients, five individuals received payments for acne, while eight people were granted benefits for writer’s cramp. This condition, as described by the NHS, commonly affects the wrists, hands, and arms.
PIP is a benefit designed to assist those with long-term physical or mental health conditions or disabilities, helping to cover additional living expenses or providing support for those struggling with daily tasks due to their conditions.
PIP Reforms in the Context of Ongoing Debates
Debate and Reforms in Parliament
Simultaneously, MPs have been actively debating the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill in Parliament. The bill, which is expected to undergo a vote later this evening, aims to overhaul the current system.
The Labour Party has criticized the existing framework, labeling it as “broken” and inherited from previous Conservative leadership.
Concessions and Changes to the Benefits System
In response to growing opposition, Prime Minister recently backtracked on certain benefits reform proposals after more than 120 Labour MPs threatened to oppose the changes. As a result, Sir Keir Starmer made concessions, including limiting cuts to PIP, ahead of the vote today.
New Eligibility Criteria
The revised bill introduces eligibility restrictions for new claimants starting in November 2026. Under the new criteria, claimants will need to score at least four points in one daily living assessment category.
This marks a significant departure from the current rules, which allow for points to be accumulated across various categories.
Government’s Commitment to Protect Existing PIP Recipients
In light of concerns from MPs supporting reform but fearing the impact on current recipients, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall reassured that existing PIP recipients will remain under the current system.
Kendall emphasized that the changes would apply only to new claims starting in 2026, ensuring that those already benefiting from PIP would not face any immediate disruptions.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) continues to administer PIP for various conditions, including acne and writer’s cramp. Meanwhile, ongoing debates in Parliament about reforming the benefits system aim to address both the speed of change and the eligibility requirements for new claimants. Despite the proposed changes, existing recipients will remain unaffected, providing them with much-needed stability.
FAQs
What are the new eligibility requirements for PIP starting in 2026?
The revised eligibility requirements for new claimants will include scoring at least four points in one daily living assessment category, as opposed to accumulating points across multiple categories.
Will existing PIP recipients be affected by the reforms?
No, the reforms will not impact current PIP recipients. They will remain under the current system until new eligibility requirements apply to new claimants in November 2026.
How much is the enhanced mobility PIP for acne and writer’s cramp?
The enhanced mobility PIP for acne and writer’s cramp amounts to around £77 per week for eligible individuals.