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The new DWP PIP Regulation already discussed in this group also makes an important change to the definition of ‘therapy’ for the purposes of Daily Living descriptor 3 of PIP.

This change means that anything to do with taking medicines, or anything to do with monitoring a health condition, CANNOT be classed as therapy. The Regulation will apply from 16 March 2017.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?
This change means that things like applying prescribed creams, using an inhaler or having injections cannot be classed as therapy under PIP. Neither can things like taking blood sugar readings or using a peak flow monitor, even if a doctor has asked you to do these things for the good of your health.

The only activity which would be classed as therapy for PIP will be activities prescribed or recommended by a medical professional which have nothing to do with taking medicines or monitoring your health, such as physiotherapy or dialysis. And you will only get PIP points for therapy if you need help doing the therapy, such as being prompted or having someone assist you.

The effect of these changes is that more people will score 1 point under PIP Daily Living Descriptor 3 (b) – managing medicines and monitoring health – rather than 2 or more points under Descriptor 3(c), (d) or (e).

This analysis is brought to you by BuDS Benefit Information Project. It is general information only and you should take advice about your specific case.

You can read the full text of the new Regulation (which is written in legal language) here: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2017/194/made