SDLP Calls For Further Progress On Controversial PIP Assessment Process

The SDLP's Deputy Leader has called for an urgent meeting with the Department for Communities to obtain an update on the actions being taken to correct the "unfair" PIP assessment process.

The controversy surrounding the disability benefit has put pressure on government officials to address the apparent chaos of the system that adversely affects claimants across Northern Ireland.

Nichola Mallon MLA is requesting the meeting in light of various shocking cases which demonstrate the "inaccuracies" and "inconsistencies" in the scoring of people by Capita Disability Assessors during the PIP (Personal Independence Payment) process.

She said: "A number of very disturbing cases of grossly unfair and unjustifiably low scoring of people with very clear disabilities has been highlighted in the media recently. We know from our work in our offices that worryingly, these are not one off cases. 

"The SDLP highlighted the frequency of reported inaccuracies in our submission to Walter Radar when he was carrying out his Independent Review of the PIP Assessment Process. We have also raised these concerns in meetings with Capita and the Department for Communities, as well as in respect of individual constituency cases."

The north Belfast MLA branded the Department's decision to reject Walter Radar's recommendations as wrong and said it "must be overturned", before calling for more training for disability assessors.

"The impact of bad and unfair scoring on a disabled person applying for PIP entitlement to help them live as independently as they can, can be profound. One bad decision is one too many. 


"The truth is many people don’t know, or don't have the strength to complain and challenge inaccurate recording and scoring. Many still believe, despite us trying to convince them otherwise, that they will be financially punished for challenging decisions and left with no award.

"PIP entitlement is a lifeline for disabled people. Capita Disability Assessors, and Department for Communities officials who are the ultimate decision makers in awarding PIP, should get it right the first time. Robust actions and checks must be put in place to ensure this is happening.

"We are seeking an urgent meeting with the Department at its most senior level to establish exactly what additional action it will be taking to prevent and protect disabled people from such appalling experiences."



(JG/CM)