Dear Constituent,
Thank you for contacting me about the Government’s proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and its potential impact on autistic people. You can read my full response to the Government’s PIP reform proposals here.
It’s clear that people with Autism can often face a range of challenges in daily life that may not be immediately visible but are nonetheless significant, such as difficulties with communication, sensory processing, and executive functioning. It is therefore important that any assessment system recognises and reflects these needs fairly.
In the Government’s original version of its Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill, it proposed changes that would have made it more difficult for people with autism to qualify for PIP. Although the Government has U-turned on these proposals due to a lack of parliamentary support, it is important that any future reforms are developed in close consultation with medical professionals and relevant organisations. It is essential that the system remains responsive to the diverse and often complex needs of autistic individuals.
The previous Conservative Government took significant steps to support autistic people through its National Autism Strategy (2021–2026), which, for the first time, included children and young people. In its first year, over £74 million was invested to improve autism diagnosis, train education staff, and expand community support services. The strategy focused on raising public awareness, reducing health inequalities, supporting employment opportunities, and improving transitions into adulthood. These efforts aimed to create a more inclusive society where people with autism can thrive.
While the current Labour Government committed in its manifesto to improving support for autistic people, I note the work to update statutory guidance under the Autism Act, begun by the previous government, has not yet been published. I will continue to follow developments and support a welfare system that is both fair and compassionate.
Thank you again for getting in touch.
Yours sincerely,
Richard Fuller MP