Our statement on the Timms Review interim report

9th July 2026

The Timms review interim report has now be published. Our Research Director Arun Veerappan comments below.

“The findings of this report lay bare the truth known to many disabled people; that the PIP system and assessment process does not work for them, and continues to let them down. Of the 38,000 people who responded to the Call to Evidence, the report finds over 90% describe a negative experience in claiming the benefit. Our own work with disabled people and unpaid carers, that we will be releasing this Autumn, has uncovered a similar picture.

We have long emphasised too, as the report correctly highlights, that PIP has not been equipped to deal with the challenges of more people living with a disability, the growing needs of fluctuating conditions, and the rising cost of living for disabled people.

Despite rising prevalence as a health condition, 1.6% of the working age population claim a disability benefit for a primary condition of anxiety and depression in 2025. Consequently, there must be greater emphasis on support rather than singling out conditions. The discourse around disability benefits too often amplifies damaging narratives and stigma.

We are mindful of the depth of engagement conducted by the Steering Group to listen and hear what disabled people and their organisations had to say on this issue. This work has highlighted that PIP is valued not just as a financial benefit, but how it passports to wider support and helps disabled people access the assistance they need to live independently.

Finally, the report should heed its own advice as it finalises its recommendations, where it has warned that “false and damaging narratives” of disabled people can only worsen outcomes. We must be ambitious for a welfare system that truly supports disabled people to participate in every part of society. We welcome this report that does not shy away from the need to truly reform the system so that it works for everyone.”

Arun Veerappan

Research Director, The Disability Policy Centre