The government is still reviewing the face-to-face assessment ban for benefits such as personal independence payment (PIP) and employment and support allowance (ESA), which is due to end in a week’s time.
The ban on face-to-face assessments was introduced on 17 March for an initial three months.
It has led to the majority of new PIP claims being assessed by telephone or just on the papers.
Justin Tomlinson, minister of state for disabled people, told MPs this week:
“As previously announced, all face-to-face assessments for health and disability benefits were suspended from 17 March 2020 for an initial period of three months. We are currently in the process of reviewing this measure in light of the latest public health advice and will confirm next steps as soon as possible.”
