Independent Review of PIP assessment published

The findings of the review of how the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment process is working in Northern Ireland were published today.

The Independent Review was carried out by Walter Rader who looked at the operation of the PIP assessment process since its introduction in June 2016.

The Department for Communities will now fully consider all of Mr Rader’s findings and will publish a response in the autumn.

The full Independent Review, including all recommendations, can be found at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/pip-assessment-process-independent-review

Notes to editors: 

1. This review complies with the Welfare Reform (NI) Order 2015 which states that an independent review must be undertaken within two years from the date PIP came into operation. PIP was introduced in Northern Ireland in June 2016.
2. Walter Rader was appointed in late 2017 as the PIP Independent Reviewer. He is Discretionary Support Commissioner for Northern Ireland and previously served as Deputy Chief Charity Commissioner for Northern Ireland.
3. PIP is the benefit replacing Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people aged 16 to pension age. Latest published statistics on PIP claimants can be found at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/personal-independence-payment-statistical-bulletin-february-2018.pdf
4. Media enquiries to DfC Press Office on 028 9082 3502 or email: press.office@communities-ni.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07623 974 383.

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