The UK welfare system is undergoing major reforms under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership, with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirming that changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) are on the horizon.
While many claimants have been concerned about potential cuts or adjustments to their benefits, the DWP has now revealed that around 700,000 people will be shielded from these changes. This announcement brings some relief, but it also raises new questions about who will be affected and how the system will work going forward.
This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about Starmer’s proposed PIP reforms, who is exempt, and what it means for disabled people and households across the UK.
What Is PIP?
PIP, or Personal Independence Payment, is a benefit designed to help people with long-term health conditions or disabilities manage the extra costs of daily living and mobility.
It is made up of two components:
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Daily Living Component – for help with everyday activities.
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Mobility Component – for support with getting around.
Claimants may receive one or both components, depending on the severity of their condition.
Why Is the Government Changing PIP?
The Labour government, led by Keir Starmer, has said that the welfare system must be modernised to reflect current needs.
Key reasons behind the changes include:
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Rising costs of disability benefits.
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Increasing demand, with more people applying for PIP each year.
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Concerns about fraud and mismanagement.
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A push to encourage people into work where possible.
The Announcement About 700,000 Claimants
The DWP has clarified that 700,000 existing PIP claimants will not be impacted by the upcoming reforms.
This group includes:
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People with severe lifelong disabilities.
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Individuals with progressive conditions where improvement is not expected.
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Older claimants who have been receiving PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for years.
By exempting these individuals, the government aims to protect the most vulnerable while making changes to other areas of the system.
Who Could Be Affected by the Changes?
While 700,000 are safe, others may see differences in how their benefits are assessed or delivered.
Groups potentially affected include:
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New claimants applying after September 2025.
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People with fluctuating conditions where improvement is possible.
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Claimants whose awards are up for reassessment.
What Will Change in the PIP Assessment Process?
The government is considering adjustments to the way claimants are evaluated. Possible reforms include:
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More medical evidence required from GPs and specialists.
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Digital assessments replacing some face-to-face meetings.
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Stricter eligibility criteria for certain conditions.
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Greater focus on work capability alongside disability.
How Much Is PIP Worth in 2025?
As of 2025, PIP rates are:
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Daily Living Component
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Standard rate: £72.65 per week
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Enhanced rate: £108.55 per week
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Mobility Component
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Standard rate: £28.70 per week
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Enhanced rate: £75.75 per week
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For many households, this financial support is vital for covering costs such as transport, care, and medical equipment.
Impact on Disabled Households
For disabled people and their families, uncertainty around PIP is deeply concerning. Many rely on this benefit as their main source of support.
Potential impacts include:
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Fear of losing financial stability.
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Pressure to provide extra medical documentation.
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Anxiety around reassessments and appeals.
Why Some People Are Being Protected
The government says that protecting the 700,000 most vulnerable claimants ensures fairness while also reforming the system.
The groups protected are typically those who:
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Have conditions unlikely to change.
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Need round-the-clock care.
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Cannot realistically enter employment.
Political Reactions to the Announcement
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Supporters of the reforms argue that the government is balancing compassion with financial responsibility.
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Critics, however, say the changes risk excluding people with hidden disabilities or fluctuating conditions.
Charities like Scope and Disability Rights UK have warned that even small changes could disproportionately harm those who already face barriers.
Starmer’s Approach to Welfare Reform
Unlike previous Conservative governments, Starmer has promised a “fairer welfare system” that supports those who truly need help while also encouraging independence and employment where possible.
The 700,000 exemptions are part of this promise, but campaigners say implementation will be the real test.
How Claimants Can Prepare
If you currently receive PIP or are planning to apply, here are steps you can take:
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Keep medical records updated.
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Seek advice from welfare rights organisations.
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Understand your rights if asked to attend reassessments.
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Apply early if your condition worsens.
Will Other Benefits Be Affected?
The PIP reforms are part of wider changes to the welfare system. Other benefits may also see adjustments, including:
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Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
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Universal Credit disability elements
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Carer’s Allowance
These will likely align with the government’s focus on supporting the most vulnerable while streamlining costs.
Reassessments and Reviews
Reassessments will still happen for many claimants, but the DWP has said that:
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The process will be simplified.
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People with permanent conditions will be spared repeated reviews.
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New claimants may face tighter checks.
Financial Implications for the UK
The DWP spends billions annually on disability benefits. By tightening rules for some but exempting 700,000 people, the government hopes to:
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Save money in the long term.
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Reduce fraud and error.
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Maintain credibility in welfare spending.
Voices From the Public
Many PIP claimants have spoken out:
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Some feel relieved to be included in the 700,000 protected group.
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Others remain worried that their conditions won’t qualify for exemption.
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Charities stress the need for clear communication from the DWP.
The Bigger Picture
The September 2025 PIP update is more than just a policy change—it reflects the government’s approach to balancing welfare support with budget pressures.
While 700,000 people are safe for now, millions of others will be watching closely to see how these reforms unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will everyone lose PIP under Starmer’s changes?
No. 700,000 people will be protected, and others may still qualify under new criteria.
Who is protected from the changes?
People with severe, lifelong, or progressive conditions are exempt.
When do the changes start?
The new rules are expected to begin rolling out from September 2025.
Can I appeal if my PIP is reduced?
Yes. Claimants will still have the right to challenge DWP decisions through appeals and tribunals.
Final Thoughts
The DWP’s announcement that 700,000 people will avoid Starmer’s PIP changes offers some reassurance, but uncertainty remains for others.
For claimants, the key is to stay informed, prepared, and ready to provide the necessary medical evidence. For policymakers, the challenge will be ensuring reforms are fair, compassionate, and sustainable.
The coming months will determine whether this balance can truly be achieved.