The Government has clarified its guidance on using 'informal observations' used during assessments for a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application. Concerns had been raised by Labour MP Dr Rupa Huq about several aspects of PIP assessments, including the '50% rule' and the '20-metre rule'.
The MP asked whether the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) had looked into the merits of removing these elements. The 20-metre rule means that if the person being assessed can walk more than 20 metres, with or without aid, they will no longer qualify for the highest rate of the PIP mobility component support, the Daily Record reports.
The 50% rule, meanwhile, means that if a condition or disability does not affect somebody half the time, then it can be disregarded or ignored for PIP purposes. Firstly clarifying the guidance on informal observations, DWP minister Tom Pursglove said: "The observations are limited to between the point the assessment starts to when the assessment ends; the health professional (HP) cannot document observations made outside of this period. This is useful in assessing functional capability and there are no current plans to stop this."
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On the 20-minute rule, Mr Pursglove said: "The enhanced rate of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) mobility component was always intended to be for those ‘unable’ or ‘virtually unable’ to walk. The 20-metre distance was introduced to distinguish those whose mobility is significantly more limited than others and who face even greater barriers on a day-to-day basis.
"Individuals who can walk more than 20 metres can still receive the enhanced rate of the Mobility component if they cannot do so safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly or in a reasonable time period. We believe the current assessment criteria, including the 20-metre rule, are the best way of identifying people whose physical mobility is most limited and there are no immediate plans to make changes."
Finally, in terms of the 50% rule, Mr Pursglove added: "It is essential the PIP assessment accurately reflects the impact of variations in an individual's level of impairment. All health professionals are required to assess individuals in line with the statutory requirements."
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