Warning on disability payments

The Government wants to reverse the effects of a court ruling which expands the number of people who can claim Personal Independence Payments (PIP).

Blackpool South MP Gordon Marsden, speaking after a House of Commons debate on the issue, said action by ministers to overturn independent tribunal decisions and give people with mental health claims for PIP less support ‘is a very dangerous and appalling precedent’.

He added: “Here in Blackpool this could affect hundreds, if not thousands, of people who claim PIP.

“In my own office casework I have recently seen at least two examples of decisions from tribunals in favour of claiming PIP, both with physical and other health conditions, being challenged by the DWP.

“An appeal by the DWP can take several months. It causes financial hardship and stress to a particular individual who has had traumatic injuries and stress in their health and wellbeing.”

But Minister for Work and Pensions Damian Green told Parliament: “Mental health conditions and physical disabilities that lead to higher costs will continue to be supported, as has always been the case.”