As i am sure everybody is aware there are plenty of benefit changes this year - DLA become PIP for people aged between 16 -64, Universal Credit is introduced and council tax benefit becomes the responsiblity of local councils to administer.
From April new claimants for DLA between the ages of 16 - 64 (in certain test areas) will need to apply for PIP. The DWP had suggested the transition of exisiting claimants onto PIP would begin in October 2013. This has now been delayed for 2 years for people with indefinite or lifetime awards.
The link for further information on this and the timetable and test postcode areas is below:
Jo, this is the best news. I do have indefinite awards and despite being virtually unable to anything, I have been so worried. You do hear of horror stories and I always feel I'll be the one it happens to! Libby x
I have an indefinite award too, can only hope that the delay for the likes of us, gives the system a chance to find out where lessons can be learnt. I have been lucky so far and have been treated okay by the new changes but so many have not be, so will it give us breathing space or prolong the agony?
The good news for me is that Atos is not dealing with it in Wales where I live. They are also willing to take statements from those that care for us. our lung specialist, respiratory nurses and the like. As has been said it will give the new system time to bed in and hopefully to operate it fairly. At least I will not have to worry about that for another two and a half years at least but then again I have enough to worry about with this damn illness without that to worry about.
It is good news that the delays are in place, [I have indefinite award too], but of EXTREME concern is the news that if you are able to stand and walk 20 metres, then you will no longer qualify for a motability car.
This is a scandalous situation as the requirement now for DLA is 50 metres, which one needs to be able to walk basicaly without any 'detrimental' effects, such as breathlessness pain, etc etc.
Please read the article here: it really is a PIP emergency and please post this info as widely as possible, wherever you can...
I also live in Wales but am pretty sure that as Esther McVey has stated, the government's single aim is to cut as many 'scroungers' [yes, the likes of you and me!] from the bill.
I don't normally get 'political' but sometimes, one has to stand up and be counted!
Thanks for reading.
Paul
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pip [personal independence payment
going from dla to pip who has got wot?
has anyone gone from low dla rates to higher rates and more awards than before?
Dare we read the news
