On Monday, 1st July 2025, the Government made some big decisions in the House of Commons about changes to benefits like PIP (Personal Independence Payment) and Universal Credit. Here’s what you need to know and how it may affect you or someone you care for.
✅ Good News: Government Drops PIP Changes (Including the 4-Point Rule)
The Government had planned to make it harder to qualify for PIP by changing how the assessments work. One of the biggest proposed changes was a new rule that would have required people to score at least 4 points in a single activity (like washing, dressing, or cooking) to get any help. Many autistic people and those with mental health difficulties were worried this would leave them without the support they need.
But after pressure from MPs, disability organisations, and people like you, the Government dropped this plan
Here’s what they’re doing instead:
- ❌ The 4-point rule will NOT be introduced.
- 🔎 The Government will carry out an independent review (Also known as the TIMMS Review) of the PIP system, looking at how it works and what changes might be fair.
- 🗓 This review will run until Autumn 2026 and will be done in co-production with disabled people..
- ✋ Until then, no changes will be made to how PIP is assessed.
- 🛡 If you already receive PIP, you will continue to receive it under the current rules.
There is a clear commitment to involve disabled people in the Independent Review from Stephen Timms (Work and Pensions Secretary)
“Disabled people and those with lived experience will be at the heart of the review process.”
Stephen Timms (Work and Pensions Secretary) 1st July 2025
What About Universal Credit?
Some changes are still planned for new Universal Credit claimants who are too unwell or disabled to work:
- Current claimants will keep their usual payments and will not be affected.
- From next year, new claimants may receive a lower extra amount for health issues — around £50 per week instead of £97.
What This Means for You
- If you already get PIP or Universal Credit, nothing is changing for now.
- If you plan to apply after Autumn 2026, there may be changes, but these will be based on the independent review.
- We understand this is a worrying time. ASD Helping Hands is here to support you with advice and information.
What Happens Next?
- The Welfare Bill will continue through Parliament. It may still change.
- The PIP review will involve people with lived experience and report back in late 2026. When details about how to get involved in this are published, we will let you know.
- The Government also needs to find other ways to save money, which could affect future decisions.
What can I do?
Stay Informed
Keep up to date through trusted disability and benefits news sources so you know what’s changing and when.
Contact Your MP
If these changes affect you or your family, tell your local MP. Personal stories can make a real difference in shaping future decisions.
Independent Review
The Government has promised a full review of PIP, with disabled people involved. When consultations open, make sure your voice is heard. We will let you know when this is happening.
Look After Yourself
This news can feel overwhelming. Take time to process it and talk to someone if you’re feeling stressed or anxious. You’re not alone.
Need Help?
If you’re worried about how this could affect you, or if you’re applying for PIP or Universal Credit, we’re here to help.
📩 Contact us through our website or support team for advice.
💙 You’re not alone — ASD Helping Hands is here every step of the way.
How did my MP Vote?
Here’s how MPs representing Norfolk constituencies voted—so you can see how your local representatives responded to the proposals that may impact autistic people, disabled individuals, and their families.
| Member | Party | Constituency | Vote |
| George Freeman | Conservative | Mid Norfolk | No Vote Recorded |
| Steff Aquarone | Liberal Democrat | North Norfolk | No |
| James Wild | Conservative | North West Norfolk | No |
| Ben Goldsborough | Labour | South Norfolk | Yes |
| Terry Jermy | South West Norfolk | South West Norfolk | No |
| Alice Macdonald | Labour | Norwich North | Yes |
| Clive Lewis | Labour | Norwich South | No |
| Jerome Mayhew | Conservative | Broadland and Fakenham | No |
| Rupert Lowe | Independant | Great Yarmouth | No |
| Adrian Ramsay | Waveney Calley | Green | No |
If you are not in Norfolk, you can find out how your MP voted by visiting this Independent News Article or searching the UK Parliament Website.
Final Thoughts from ASD Helping Hands
We welcome the uplift to Universal Credit, especially during a time when many families are struggling with the cost of living. However, this must not come at the detriment of disabled people, including those with hidden or non-visible challenges, such as autism.
We implore the Government to ensure the upcoming PIP review is full, fair, and meaningful, with disabled people actively involved in shaping any decisions. Reforms must be based on real-life experiences, not assumptions.
We also call on our local representatives to truly listen to autistic people and those with other disabilities—to understand the daily barriers they face, and to help build a social security system that works for everyone, not just some.
ASD Helping Hands will continue to support our community, provide updates, and make sure your voices are heard.