800K Affected by PIP Cuts: UK Areas Hit Hardest

More than half of disabled individuals who rely on support for daily tasks in certain parts of England and Wales could lose their benefits under the Government’s proposed welfare reforms, according to a new report.

An analysis by The Big Issue, using data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), revealed that in 10 parliamentary constituencies, at least 50% of people currently receiving the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could lose their entitlement if upcoming changes are approved by MPs next month.

Some of the most impacted areas include Tipton and Wednesbury, as well as Wolverhampton South East—represented by Cabinet minister Pat McFadden.

Even in Guildford, Surrey—among the least affected regions—a significant portion (over a third) of claimants may still lose support.

In Boston and Skegness, where Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice is MP, 52% of claimants are projected to be at risk of losing their PIP payments.

Recent reports indicated that changes to PIP eligibility could strip some individuals of up to £12,000 annually in benefits.

Estimates suggest approximately 800,000 people may lose eligibility for the daily living element of PIP, with an average loss of around £4,500 per year by 2029/30.

Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling, who initiated the parliamentary questions leading to the report, said: “These proposals could see households lose up to £12,000 if they lose both PIP and Carer’s Allowance—a devastating blow.”

Currently, the higher rate of PIP amounts to £5,740.80 per year, while Carer’s Allowance provides £4,331.60. Losing both would result in a yearly income loss of £10,072.40 for many families.

A DWP spokesperson responded, saying: “Most claimants will continue to receive PIP after the reforms. We are committed to protecting those who genuinely need support. Our review of the PIP assessment will involve input from disabled people and the organisations representing them, as part of our broader Plan for Change.”

Top 10 Areas Most at Risk (% of claimants affected):

• Boston and Skegness – 52%

• Tipton and Wednesbury – 52%

• Torfaen – 51%

• Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney – 51%

• Smethwick – 51%

• Cannock Chase – 51%

• Wolverhampton South East – 51%

• Bolsover – 51%

• South Holland and The Deepings – 50%

• Rhondda and Ogmore – 50%

These figures reflect the percentage of claimants who received under four points across all daily living criteria during their PIP assessments.