This review was compiled by Mr Walter Rader and has made a number of recommendations to try and improve the PIP Assessment process for the most vulnerable in our community. The Department for Communities commissioned Walter Rader to undertake an independent review on how the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment is working in Northern Ireland.  To support this review a Call for Evidence was launched in January 2018. Along with this Call for Evidence, Mr Rader also engaged directly with PIP operational staff, the assessment provider involved in the delivery of PIP and voluntary organisations who provide advice and support to claimants.

Speaking after the launch Mr Dunne added:

‘I was happy to attend the launch of this report compiled by Walter Rader and his team. The Assessment process for applications can be a difficult time for the most vulnerable within our society and it is important that the process is fair and appropriate for all those entitled to support. I attended a Consultation event with Walter along with a number of local Community Groups from North Down and raised concerns which we have had from feedback with constituents. There was a considerable level of consultation during this review from right across the community and with various stakeholders and agencies.

This Independent Review will be a helpful tool to try and improve the PIP Assessment Process for those in need and I trust that the Department for Communities (DfC) will look at these recommendations and give them serious consideration to try and improve the system and ensure the PIP process is properly focused on the needs of the most vulnerable in our society.’

ENDS

Notes:

Link to Independent Review

https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/dfc-independent-review-pip-assessment-process-june-2018.pdf