As part of the far-reaching welfare reforms by Central Government, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is being replaced by a new benefit called Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
The process kicks off this month and is expected to roll out over the next three years.
And Luton Borough Council is contacting all local residents affected by the national changes.
PIP affects 16-64 year olds. It does not affect children until they reach 16, or anyone who was aged 65 or older by 8 April this year receiving Disability Attendance Allowance or Attendance Allowance.
To receive PIP you need a new medical assessment, carried out on behalf of the Department for Work and Pension, covering daily living activities such as:
> preparing food
> taking nutrition
> managing therapy or monitoring a health condition
> washing and bathing
> managing toilet needs or incontinence
> dressing and undressing
> communicating verbally
> reading and understanding signs, symbols and words
> engaging with other people face to face
> making budgeting decisions and mobility activities such as planning and following journeys and moving around.
Cllr Mahmood Hussain, portfolio holder for adult social care, said: “Central Government’s reform of the benefits system, which aims to make work pay and simplify the way welfare is delivered, is wide-ranging.
“The latest changes mean that around 20 per cent of current Disability Living Allowance claimants will probably lose some or all of their entitlement including blue badges, council tax discounts and access to certain grants, as well as some carers losing Carer’s Allowance.”
For more information please see www.dwp.gov.uk or www.luton.gov.uk/benefitchanges (which also features a link to a self-help test on the Benefits and Work website to see how you might score under the PIP activity tests) or speak to a benefit change advisor on 0300 790 0345 or visit a benefit change advisor at the Town Hall on Tuesdays or Thursdays.