The UK government is making major changes to how people are checked for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Starting from September 2024, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will use a new system called Functional Assessment Services (FAS). This aims to make the process easier, fairer, and less stressful for people applying for or renewing their PIP claims.
The new system will try to decide claims using paper-based assessments first. This means if someone already has enough medical evidence, they may not need to attend an in-person or remote interview. But, if needed, the DWP will still offer assessments through video, telephone, or face-to-face meetings, depending on what works best for the claimant.
The government also plans to check assessment providers more closely to make sure everything is done properly. This includes making sure people are treated fairly, the right kind of assessment is used, and results are accurate. Overall, the goal is to improve the PIP process for everyone, especially those with long-term or serious health conditions.
What is the New Functional Assessment Services (FAS) Model?
The Functional Assessment Services model is a new way for the DWP to handle benefit assessments. Instead of using many companies across the UK, one provider will be in charge of all assessments in each area. This change will:
- Make the process faster and smoother for claimants.
- Help people who need both PIP and Work Capability Assessments (WCA).
- Reduce confusion and delays.
- Make it easier for the government to keep providers accountable.
Under this model, the company handling the assessments will have to follow clear rules. They must choose the best way to assess someone’s needs, based on their health and situation.
Big Push for Paper-Based Assessments First
One of the biggest changes is the move to paper-based assessments. The DWP will try to use medical records and other documents to make a decision without needing to speak to the claimant. This will:
- Avoid putting pressure on people who struggle with assessments.
- Speed up the process for those with clear, long-term conditions.
- Reduce the number of in-person or remote interviews.
Only when more information is needed will the DWP ask someone to attend an assessment. This could be done in one of several ways.
How the DWP Decides What Kind of Assessment to Use
Before scheduling any assessment, the DWP will review the claimant’s situation. They will check:
- If medical records are enough to decide the claim.
- If a specific assessment type is needed due to health problems.
- If the claimant is okay with any kind of assessment and should be scheduled quickly.
People who need extra help or special adjustments because of disabilities will have those needs taken into account when planning their assessment.
Better Monitoring and Fair Checks for Everyone
With FAS, the DWP is also making sure that assessment providers are doing their jobs properly. They will:
- Regularly audit providers to ensure the right assessment method is used.
- Check that decisions are fair, especially if a paper-based option was not enough.
- Increase the number of in-person assessments over time.
By autumn 2025, the DWP wants more people to have the option of face-to-face assessments again, so those who prefer them won’t be left out.
What This Means for People on PIP
These changes are designed to make life easier for those receiving PIP. Here’s how:
- Fewer unnecessary assessments, especially for people with long-term health issues.
- A simpler and quicker system.
- Claimants’ needs and preferences will be respected more.
- Better accuracy in results, as providers will be checked often.
Claimants should make sure their medical records are up to date. This will help their case be decided faster and might mean they can skip a live assessment.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for PIP Assessments?
The DWP says it will continue to review and improve the system. They will listen to feedback, study how the system is working, and make changes as needed. While paper-based and remote assessments are still allowed, face-to-face checks will become more common for complicated cases.
All changes will be based on facts and what’s best for both claimants and the overall system. The main aim is to make sure the process is fair, fast, and easier for those who need help the most.