Disabled people should be put first in a review of PIP, Citizens Advice BCP has said.
The charity has responded to the government’s call for evidence on the Timms Review of Personal Independence Payment, using direct evidence from its work with thousands of people across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
Citizens Advice BCP says the existing system is confusing and stressful for claimants, and has warned that it is failing some of the people it is meant to support.
Chief Officer Tom Lund said: “Every day we support people who are overwhelmed by the PIP claims process.”
He said narrow and confusing descriptors can make it difficult for disabled people to explain the true impact of their disability when making a claim.
The Timms Review invited disabled people and charities working with them to give feedback as part of an engagement programme on the first comprehensive examination of PIP since it began in 2013.
Citizens Advice BCP says it has dealt with more than 15,000 PIP-related issues in the last 6 years, and has used that experience to shape its response.
Tom added: “It’s important that charities like Citizens Advice participate in shaping legislation that impacts on people in the BCP area.”
The charity’s full response is available to view on the Citizens Advice BCP website.
