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Written question asked by Zöe Franklin (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 1 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 September 2026. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Friday, 11 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Personal Independence Payment: Autism and Learning Disability

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps his Department is taking through the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to assess whether the current PIP assessment process adequately reflects the needs and circumstances of claimants with autism and learning disabilities.

Answer

The Timms Review seeks to ensure that PIP is fair and fit for the future. The Review's terms of reference set out a broad scope to ensure that PIP effectively captures the impact of long-term health conditions and disabilities in the modern world.

The Review is being co-produced with disabled people, the organisations that represent them, and other experts. The steering group has shaped a programme of participation that brings together the full range of views and voices, including those with autism and learning disabilities.

The interim report of the Timms Review found that PIP as a benefit is no longer fit for purpose and is failing to keep pace with how disability, health and work have changed over the past decade.

The next phase of the Review is testing and refining recommendations for reform. The Review will report its recommendations to the Secretary of State in autumn.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
26392
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Autism Learning disability Medical examinations Personal independence payment
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk