PIP is the UK welfare benefit helping disabled and ill adults with extra living costs; eligibility hinges on life impact, not work status.
The government has warned of further price pressures this winter as Ofgem prepares to set the October-December price cap amid ongoing global energy volatility. Budgets are shifting as targeted discounts and existing discounts come under review, with think tanks urging faster, more precise support for households.
Disability Rights UK's Kamran Mallick says funding through the Access to Work scheme has been cut for a driver/support worker after a July call. The scheme funds practical support for disabled workers. The NAO finds processing times have surged to 109 days by late 2025, with more applications in 2024/25 and rising spend. Ministers deny policy changes while campaigners say generosity is being trimmed.
The number of people claiming the personal independence payment has risen to about 4.1 million, with interim reviews calling the system “not fit for purpose.” A final Timms-led assessment is due later this year, with recommendations that could include more face-to-face assessments and mixed cash/non-cash support, while overall welfare spending remains a political flashpoint.
The TUC has called for a levy on bank profits to fund a social tariff aimed at cutting energy bills. The union movement argues ministers should move faster on cost-of-living relief as households face high energy costs and inflation.
Inflation has moved to a five‑month high of 3.1% as fuel prices and airfares climb, driven by Middle East conflict. The government has announced relief measures while stressing fiscal prudence. The Budget is six weeks away, and markets face higher borrowing costs amid a fragile headroom.