Under GMLC’s new partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and Pro Bono Community (PBC), 16 law students will assist our clients in applying for disability benefits. All of these students have successfully completed comprehensive training in welfare benefits law from PBC as well as our own training.
DLA, PIP and our services
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a form of benefit for people aged 16 to 64 who need help towards some of the extra costs father disability. In 2013, this was replaced with Personal Independence Payments (PIP), meaning that new claimants had to claim PIP instead.
Now, people who were already on DLA are being asked to make a new claim for PIP, because DLA is ending. If they do not make a new claim, their benefit payments will stop.
GMLC have been assisting a large number of people on PIP appeals where people have moved from DLA to PIP, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has decided that they are no longer entitled to benefits. Sometimes, this decision was made simply because of how the form has been completed, as PIP is significantly different to the previous benefit. This is a frustrating and confusing process for claimants.
The next generation of social welfare lawyers
At GMLC, we are excited to be working with MMU and PBC to offer a new service where 16 students will begin to deliver a PIP form completion service from 9th April, after having received training in welfare benefits law from Pro Bono Community and satisfactory completed the Law Centre’s training plan.
We are committed to supporting the next generation of social welfare lawyers. This scheme will benefit both the public and the law students who gain invaluable experience.
On 20th April, we will discuss the current state of Legal Aid, the impact of the political changes, the challenges faced by the next generation of social welfare lawyers and our hope for the future. Join us by reserving a ticket here.
