Story perspectives

PIP Claimants Hit 4.01 Million; Charities Demand Overhaul

7/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Personal Independence Payment recipients rose to 4.01 million in April 2026, a 7 % increase and double the 2019 level.
The interim review called the PIP claim process dehumanising, soul-destroying and degrading.
Sir Stephen Timms said the system has not kept up with disability understanding and requires fundamental change.
Charities including Rethink Mental Illness, the MS Society and Mencap urged radical reform and said 39 % of claimants have psychiatric disorders, the highest share.

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Story summary

Personal Independence Payment recipients rose to 4.01 million in April 2026, a 7 % increase and double the 2019 level.
The interim review called the PIP claim process dehumanising, soul-destroying and degrading.
Sir Stephen Timms said the system has not kept up with disability understanding and requires fundamental change.
Charities including Rethink Mental Illness, the MS Society and Mencap urged radical reform and said 39 % of claimants have psychiatric disorders, the highest share.