The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recently clarified guidance around ‘informal observations’ carried out by health professionals during assessments for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The observations are limited to between the point at which the assessment actually begins to when it ends - the health professional cannot document observations made outside of this period.
Minister for Disabled People Tom Pursglove MP also explained that while the PIP assessment “does allow for informal observations of functional limitations, this is only part of the suite of evidence considered by health professionals”. He added that informal observations are not viewed in isolation, but are “considered alongside all other available evidence to determine entitlement”.
In a recent written response to Labour MP Dr Rupa Huq, the DWP Minister 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.”
Dr Huq had asked DWP what assessments have been made of the potential merits of removing the following from PIP assessments:
- the 20-metre rule
- informal observations
- the 50% rule
Mr Pursglove responded: “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.”
The 50 per cent rule refers to the impact a condition has on someone’s daily life over a 12-month period in relation to the PIP statutory requirements.
These include:
- whether an individual can complete each of the 12 activities
- the manner in which they can do it
- whether they can complete each activity safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly and in a reasonable time period
Mr Pursglove said: “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.
“When choosing the descriptor, the health professional should also consider an individual’s ability over a 12-month period, ensuring that fluctuations are taken into account.
“For each activity, if a descriptor applies on more than 50 per cent of the days in the 12-month period, that descriptor should be chosen. In general, health professionals should record function over an average year for conditions that fluctuate over months, per week for conditions that fluctuate by the day, and by the day for conditions that vary over a day.”
He added: “The Department closely monitors all aspects of the assessment process, including how we assess fluctuating health conditions; however, there are no current plans to remove the 50 per cent rule.”
You can read the full response here.
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