DWP statistics released this week show that chances of getting an award of PIP following an assessment by Atos (IAS) or Capita continues to fall, without any explanation ever being offered for the downward plunge
A detailed analysis of the figures shows a slow but steady decline in success rates has been taking place for years.
But for over six years, from the first PIP decision being made in May 2013, the success rate for new claims never fell as low as 50%.
In the 12 months to January 2021, however, there have only been 5 months when the award rate was higher than 50%.
For the most recent six months the figures are:
- August 43%
- September 44%
- October 51%
- November 52%
- December 49%
- January 47%
This gives an overall success rate for the last six months of 47.6%, compared to the overall success rate since PIP was introduced of 56%.
The success rate for DLA to PIP claimants who have an assessment with Atos (IAS) or Capita has also fallen.
For the most recent six months the figures are:
- August 52%
- September 71%
- October 70%
- November 74%
- December 71%
- January 67%
This gives an overall success rate for the last six months of 67.5% compared to the overall success rate for DLA to PIP reassessments of 78%.
Whatever the machinations taking place behind the closed doors of the DWP, the evidence is clear: PIP is getting harder to claim successfully.