Blue badge update for people on PIP after welfare reform change

As the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill saw some pivotal last-minute changes this week, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has assured that additional benefits, discounts, and supports will remain unaffected by the upcoming changes slated for November 2026. This includes key services like the Blue Badge scheme, concessionary travel, and Carer's Allowance, which largely depend on PIP eligibility.

The Bill proposed a change to PIP criteria that risked disqualifying thousands, consequently disqualifying them from these 'passported benefits' too. However, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall has confirmed they will not be affected.

Labour MP for Gravesham, Dr Lauren Sullivan, raised concerns in the Daily Record: "PIP is, of course, a passport to freedom for many other things such as the Carer's Allowance, and many local authorities use PIP for Blue Badges and bus passes.

"Does the Secretary of State have a plan to mitigate the impact of the potential changes to PIP eligibility on access to Blue Badges and bus passes for disabled people?"

Kendall clarified: "As I said in my statement, existing PIP claimants will continue to have that benefit. It will not be affected even if they have a reassessment, and neither will all the passported benefits.

"Carer's Allowance is the best known. But all passported benefits will be included in that protection."

Either way, no changes to PIP will occur until Sir Stephen Timms completes his full review of the assessment process with consultations with disability organisations and charities, which is expected to be finished by Autumn 2026.

It has been confirmed that the adjustments to the 4-point rule for PIP will not influence the mobility component associated with Blue Badge eligibility. In Scotland, individuals on Adult Disability Payment will remain unaffected by DWP welfare changes.

The mobility element of PIP consists of two assessment categories; planning and following journeys, and moving around.

To qualify for a Blue Badge, claimants need to score at least eight points in the moving around category, and their PIP award can serve as proof when applying for the badge.

For those scoring between eight and 11 points on mobility assessments, the standard rate of the mobility component is awarded, whereas scores of 12 or more points secure the enhanced rate.

At present, the enhanced rate of PIP mobility provides £77.05 per week, while the standard rate offers £29.20 per week. The daily living component grants £73.90 on the lower rate and £110.40 on the higher rate. More information can be found on the Gov.uk website.