In Plain English
AI-generatedThe Disability Benefits (Single Assessment) Bill aims to replace multiple disability-benefit assessments with one streamlined, single process. It would create a unified framework for how assessments are designed, carried out and reviewed, with the goal of making decisions faster and more consistent for claimants. The bill focuses on making the system easier to navigate while maintaining safeguards and appeal rights.
Key Points
- Creates a single, unified assessment process for disability benefits, replacing separate assessments for schemes like PIP, DLA and ESA.
- Sets out the rules, standards and accessibility requirements for the assessment and who conducts it.
- Introduces governance and delivery arrangements, potentially including a dedicated body or specified responsibilities for the DWP.
- Includes transitional and rollout provisions to protect current claimants while the new system is phased in.
- Aims to speed up decision times, reduce duplication and improve fairness and consistency of outcomes, with monitoring and reporting requirements.
Progress
The bill is currently at the 2nd Reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would move to detailed scrutiny in a Committee, followed by Report Stage and Third Reading, and then proceed to the Lords if approved by Parliament.
Who is affected?
Disabled people applying for disability benefits (such as PIP, DLA, ESA, and related benefits)Current claimants and those awaiting decisionsCarers and family members of disabled peopleAdvocacy groups, charities and organisations supporting disabled peopleHealthcare professionals and other assessors involved in benefit assessmentsDWP staff and any private sector contractors delivering the single assessmentOrganisations involved in the delivery and monitoring of disability-benefit services
Generated 21 February 2026
