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22/01/2019
Watchdog To Launch Probe Into PIP Benefit System
The Public Services Ombudsman has proposed an investigation into how the Northern Ireland government is handling the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) benefit.
PIPs replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in 2016 and subjected all claimants to an official review of their payments while switching benefits.
The Ombudsman, Marie Anderson, has the power to investigate if her office suspects "systemic maladministration".
A probe into the welfare benefit would mark the first use of the "own initiative" power.
In a statement, Ms Anderson said she has written to the Department for Communities' top civil servant stating that there has been a significant number of complaints about PIPs since June 2016.
She also pointed out that a "high number" of decisions on applications have subsequently been overturned by an appeals tribunal, and is satisfied that the criteria has been met for her to carry out such an investigation.
Any probe into the Department's handling of the welfare benefit will be concluded in a published report.
(JG/CM)
PIPs replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in 2016 and subjected all claimants to an official review of their payments while switching benefits.
The Ombudsman, Marie Anderson, has the power to investigate if her office suspects "systemic maladministration".
A probe into the welfare benefit would mark the first use of the "own initiative" power.
In a statement, Ms Anderson said she has written to the Department for Communities' top civil servant stating that there has been a significant number of complaints about PIPs since June 2016.
She also pointed out that a "high number" of decisions on applications have subsequently been overturned by an appeals tribunal, and is satisfied that the criteria has been met for her to carry out such an investigation.
Any probe into the Department's handling of the welfare benefit will be concluded in a published report.
(JG/CM)
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