DWP PIP crackdown could see claimants forced to 'prove' their purchases

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) may require PIP claimants to "prove" their purchases in a new crackdown.

The proposed changes could see the introduction of a "proof letter" for claimants, replacing DWP cash payments with a receipt-based system. Claimants would need to buy aids, appliances, or services themselves and then provide proof of purchase to claim back a contribution towards the cost.

This system could mirror the Access to Work scheme, which offers grants for equipment, adaptations, and other costs to help disabled people start and stay in work. The green paper goes on: "Currently, people are encouraged to send their own evidence such as hospital letters or care plans to support their claim.

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"If further evidence is needed, the assessment provider contacts the GP or hospital via a form for further information. But this form is often not returned or contains limited information.

"With improved digitalisation of the NHS, it now often shares hospital letters by post or through online services with patients, and people now have access to their own health records through the NHS app. We would like to know if this access to documentation could be used better as evidence of a health condition or disability to support the assessment for eligibility for PIP."

The green paper was released last week amid a crackdown from the DWP on benefits, BirminghamLive reports.

Responding to the move, one fumed: "There are so many scams going on from Foreign sources and it would be too difficult and too much hard work for the DWP to actually even start to resolve them! It is standard procedure to hit on those who can't fight back!"

A second raged: "Vouchers instead of cash is a disaster in so many ways. Namely it will stigmatise the disabled. Using vouchers to get carers or supplies will tell whoever you are dealing with, your financial situation. How is that fair? ... Secondly, people with disabilities are targeted in schools, workplaces, and society generally."

"Vouchers will open people up to discrimination because lots of people will know they are claiming benefits, whereas otherwise they could have been self-funded. Why should strangers have information about sick people."