Recently, there has been a significant change in the law that may benefit certain groups of older people who receive the lower rate of mobility element in their benefits. This change allows them to request a review of their claim from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This is a positive development that aims to provide fair and just support for those who may have been overlooked in the past.
The lower rate of mobility element is a component of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) that is designed to assist people with disabilities or long-term health conditions to cover the additional costs of their mobility needs. It is awarded to individuals who face challenges in getting around and require additional support to maintain their independence. However, until recently, this support was not available to certain groups of older people.
In the past, individuals aged 65 or over were not eligible to receive the lower rate of mobility element. This was due to a rule that stated that only those under the age of 65 could receive this component of PIP. This rule was seen as unfair and discriminatory towards older people who may also face mobility challenges and require additional support. However, thanks to a recent change in the law, this rule has been abolished, and older people can now request a review of their claim.
This change in the law is a significant step towards ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their age, are treated fairly and have equal access to support. It recognizes that older people may also face mobility challenges and require assistance to maintain their independence. It also acknowledges that the needs and circumstances of individuals can change over time, and therefore, it is essential to regularly review their claims to ensure they are receiving the appropriate support.
The DWP has stated that they will proactively identify those who may be eligible for a review and will contact them directly. However, if you believe you may be eligible for a review, you can also request one from the DWP. This can be done by contacting the PIP enquiry line or by writing to the DWP. It is important to note that this change in the law only applies to those who are already receiving the lower rate of mobility element. New claims for PIP will still follow the previous rule of only being available to those under the age of 65.
The DWP has also assured that those who are eligible for a review will not have their current award reduced as a result. This means that if your claim is reviewed and it is determined that you are now eligible for the lower rate of mobility element, your current award will not be affected. This is a reassurance for those who may be hesitant to request a review out of fear of losing their current support.
This change in the law is a positive step towards creating a fair and inclusive society for all individuals. It recognizes the needs and challenges faced by older people and ensures that they are not overlooked or discriminated against. It also highlights the importance of regularly reviewing claims to ensure that individuals are receiving the appropriate support for their circumstances.
If you or a loved one may be eligible for a review, we encourage you to contact the DWP and request one. This could potentially lead to a higher level of support and improve your quality of life. It is also a reminder that the government is committed to continuously improving and adapting their policies to better support those in need.
In conclusion, the recent change in the law allowing certain groups of older people to request a review of their claim for the lower rate of mobility element is a positive development that aims to provide fair and just support for all individuals. We applaud this change and encourage those who may be eligible to take advantage of it. Let us continue to work towards a society that supports and empowers all individuals, regardless of their age or circumstances.
