DWP to change PIP support for people with muscle and joint conditions

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled a new initiative aimed at accelerating treatment for individuals with back, joint, and muscle problems in regions plagued by the longest queues for musculoskeletal (MSK) care. This move is a key element of the UK Government's 'Get Britain Working' white paper, designed to expedite the return to work for those affected.

Recent statistics released by the DWP reveal that as of the end of October, over 1.1 million people across England and Wales were beneficiaries of Personal Independence Payments (PIP), receiving up to £737.20 monthly to assist with MSK conditions.

In an effort to combat economic inactivity—defined as being out of employment and not actively job-seeking—the Government has earmarked a £3.5 million fund to be divided among 17 Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) in England. These funds are intended to enhance MSK services, reports the Daily Record.

The allocated funding will provide up to £300,000 to each designated area in England and Wales, targeting one of the principal causes of economic inactivity. This strategy forms part of the Labour Government's Plan for Change, which pledges to "put more money into people's pockets and get the NHS back on its feet"

The MSK Community Delivery Programme is set to be delivered through the NHS England's Getting it Right First Time (GIRFT) initiative, providing Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) with the necessary tools and guidance to create more effective methods for treating musculoskeletal (MSK) patients. The aim is to reduce wait times and help individuals return to work.

Employment Minister Alison McGovern MP recently emphasised the importance of the programme, saying: "For too long people locked out of work with health issues have been forgotten about and denied the support they need to get well and get working. It's stifling our economy and preventing those eager to progress in life from unleashing their full potential."

She further stated: "This multi-million-pound funding boost means musculoskeletal patients across the country will get the help they need, as we give clinical leaders the resources to innovate, get people off waiting lists and get Britain working again."

According to government data, there are roughly 2.8 million people who are economically inactive due to long-term health issues, with MSK being the second most common reason after mental health. Nearly one in four (23%) of these—about 646,000 individuals—report MSK as their main health concern.

England faces its longest wait times for community MSK services, holding the record at 348,799 individuals as of September 2024. Additionally, MSK conditions were responsible for around 23.4 million lost workdays in the UK throughout 2022.

Addressing the topic of musculoskeletal health, Minister for Public Health and Prevention Andrew Gwynne recently underscored the importance of early intervention, saying: "With prevention, early detection and treatment, we know that the 17 million people with musculoskeletal issues in England could better manage their conditions, improving their quality of life and enabling them to rejoin the workforce."

He added: "Through the Plan for Change, the government is taking decisive action to drive down waiting lists, improve treatment options and boost the economy." The initiative is being rolled out across various Integrated Care Board (ICB) locations which are also in alignment with NHS England's Further Faster 20 initiative and the UK Government's newly unveiled WorkWell programme.

Deborah Alsina MBE, Chief Executive of Versus Arthritis, weighed in on the matter, stating: "With over 20 million people living with musculoskeletal conditions, including 10 million with arthritis, Versus Arthritis understands the devastating impact these conditions can have on working lives."

She elaborated on the struggles faced by those affected, saying: "Arthritis can cause debilitating pain, joint stiffness and prevent people doing everyday tasks, with work sometimes made to feel an impossible challenge." She added: "MSK Community Services can be an invaluable resource for people with arthritis, and we are delighted to see the launch of this programme in dedicated sites across England, and in the future across the whole country."

The Government unveiled the Get Britain Working White Paper in November, marking what they say is the most significant overhaul of employment support in a generation. This initiative aims to integrate skills and health to boost employment rates and career progression.

A consultation on proposed amendments to the welfare system is slated for publication prior to the Spring Statement on March 26.