A crucial vote on contentious welfare reforms is scheduled for today following Labour’s announcement of significant compromises to prevent a rebellion from its own MPs.
Prior to the vote, 126 Labour MPs had backed an amendment to pause the progress of the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill in the House of Commons.
Originally, the proposal aimed to tighten the criteria for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) disability benefit and restrict the sickness-related component of universal credit. However, in response to concerns, Labour has now offered further concessions to secure support for the bill.
PIP serves as the primary disability benefit for working-age individuals in the UK, providing assistance to those requiring extra support with daily tasks due to health conditions or disabilities. Eligibility for PIP is determined by how these conditions impact one’s daily life, rather than the conditions themselves.
Applicants undergo assessments, either in person, over the phone, or via video call, using a points system to assess qualification for the daily living and mobility components of PIP. Successful claims receive PIP for a specified period before a reassessment.
Depending on the points scored, individuals may receive standard or higher rates for the daily living and mobility components. Terminally ill individuals are exempt from medical assessments for PIP.
Labour’s proposed changes to PIP eligibility rules, which would have set stricter criteria, particularly for the daily living element, have been amended to apply only to new claims starting November 2026. Existing claimants will not be affected by these changes.
The rates for daily living and mobility components of PIP range from £29.20 to £110.40 per week, with payments made every four weeks. If awarded the maximum rates for both components, individuals could receive up to £749.80 every four weeks.
No alterations are planned for the PIP mobility component for current and new claimants.