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<p>I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Stretford and Urmston (Kate Green) on 11 November 2013, Official Report, column 516W.</p><p>Since the introduction of PIP new claims in April, we have been closely monitoring all aspects of the process. Our latest analysis is telling us that the end-to-end claiming journey is taking longer than expected both within DWP and with the providers. In particular providers are telling us that the assessment process, including booking appointments, gathering further evidence and providing assessment reports to DWP, is taking longer than expected. We are working with providers to ensure that all the steps in the process are as smooth as they can be.</p><p>Although PIP is a new benefit, and the Department does not have a target for completion of claims while processes are bedding in, we do deal urgently with special rules claims for terminally ill claimants. We are making a number of changes within the Department for claimants and support organisations including establishing a dedicated telephone claims line for terminally ill claimants to make a new claim to PIP; creating a more rapid transfer of information between the Department and Assessment Providers and reducing the time it takes to get a DS1500 form in support of the PIP claim into the Department.</p> |