MP raises fears over zero scores in tests for disability

MORE THAN 220,000 people have been given “zero scores” in both parts of the test for disability benefits in only 18 months, according to new figures.

Labour’s Angela Eagle called the statistics “deeply worrying” and said it reflected growing numbers of cases causing people great distress in her constituency.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments award people points based on their ability to carry out different tasks.

For each component of PIP, people need at least eight points to get the standard rate or 12 points to get the higher enhanced payments.

Figures obtained by Ms Eagle through written parliamentary questions show 220,390 people scored “zero points” in the tests for both the mobility and daily living component of PIP between April 2016 and October 2017.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said decisions on PIP were made after careful consideration and more people were now receiving higher rates. However, former Welfare Minister Ms Eagle said: “It is deeply worrying to see just how many people are being written off and given scores of zero for their PIP assessments.

“This reflects recent experience in my constituency, where increasing numbers of people are contacting me in great distress after receiving scores of zero.

“This includes people that have received PIP in the past, and have actually seen a deterioration in their health since then.”

Overall, 347,210 cases have scored zero on either or both parts of the PIP test since April 2016. A DWP spokeswoman said: “Decisions for PIP are made after careful consideration of all the evidence provided by the claimant, including supporting evidence from their GP or medical specialist, and anyone who is unhappy with a decision can appeal.”