Joshua Reynolds MP has urged the Government to urgently change course and rethink their cuts to Personal Independence Payments (PIP), with new data showing that over 700 Maidonians claiming the payment could lose at least some of their benefit.
A Written Parliamentary Question by the Liberal Democrats found that in 55 constituencies in England and Wales, 90% of those claiming the standard rate of Personal Independence Payment for daily living activities could lose at least some of the benefit following the Government’s cuts.
Under the Government’s plans, from November 2026 people on PIP will be required to score a minimum of four points in at least one daily living activity to receive support with everyday tasks such as washing and cooking. Those scoring less will lose access to the “daily living” component, which for some will result in a full withdrawal of the benefit. The Government has revealed that 81% of those claiming the standard daily living award in Maidenhead fall below this four-point threshold.
Maidenhead’s MP, Joshua Reynolds, has emphasised that this could lead to vulnerable people missing out on vital support, and has called on the Government to “urgently change course”.
Joshua Reynolds said:
“These changes to Personal Independence Payments are deeply concerning, and I’m worried about what it could mean for vulnerable residents in Maidenhead who could lose vital parts of the benefit.
“Hundreds of Maidonians could miss out on support, the support that helps people with daily tasks that many of us would take for granted, such as staying clean or staying safe. Many people depend on this vital help to stay in work and support themselves financially. The minister told us that as most PIP claimants have their conditions worsen over time, that many who will fall below the threshold will be able to successfully have their claims re-evaluted. However, the government has failed to recognise the fact that by not cruelly taking away PIP from the claimants, their condition may not deteriorate so quickly and they would be able to live a happier life!”
“The Government has to recognise that what they’re doing is wrong, and change course before it’s too late for people in our communities.”