The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has clarified the details for people awaiting an award review. Earlier this month, it was announced that it would automatically extend existing Personal Independence Payment (PIP) awards awaiting review from the current three months by up to 12 months. DWP also said it will do this 35 days before the award end date by text message.
PIP is a payment from the Government. It is designed to help those with a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability, and who have difficulty doing certain everyday tasks, with extra living costs.
The extension is designed to provide greater certainty for claimants and in particular help with continuing to access other support, such as the Blue Badge scheme, according to the DWP. From October 31, a letter will be sent automatically to people on PIP confirming continuing entitlement for up to 12 months, but until then, DWP will update claimants by text message that their award reviews have been extended and will remain in payment.
