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<p>We are committed to ensuring that people can access financial support through PIP
in a timely manner and reducing customer journey times for PIP claimants is a priority
for the Department. We always aim to make an award decision as quickly as possible,
taking into account the need to review all available evidence. There are no clearing
targets for PIP.</p><p> </p><p>Following an increase in new claims and end-to-end
PIP clearance times after the Covid pandemic, we have taken steps to reduce and stabilise
customer journey times for PIP claimants. The latest statistics show that the average
clearance time for new claims is 15 weeks end-to-end, a significant decrease from
26 weeks in August 2021.</p><p> </p><p>We are addressing the increase in new claims
and award reviews by increasing provider and case manager capacity and using a blend
of assessment channels to deliver a more efficient and user-centred service. We are
prioritising new claims, whilst safeguarding claimants awaiting award reviews, aiming
to make a decision as quickly as possible.</p><p> </p><p>The measure announced in
the Budget will provide additional funding to support the processing of increased
volumes of disability benefit claims. This will help to ensure that waiting times
remain low and that claimants receive the appropriate level of support in a timely
manner.</p>
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