The number of people claiming the Personal Independence Payment (Pip) has reached a record high of 4.1 million, according to recent government data. This marks a two percent increase from May to July, rising from 4.01 million, and comes ahead of planned changes to the benefit later this year. Pip is a financial support program for people with long-term health conditions or disabilities, helping them cover the extra costs associated with their condition. The benefit is currently under review by Social Security Minister Stephen Timms, with a final report expected to be delivered to the government in the autumn. Earlier findings from the review suggested that Pip is "not fit for purpose," indicating that major changes are likely. Proposed adjustments include introducing more face-to-face assessments and replacing lump sum payments with vouchers for specific expenses. The number of Pip claimants has more than doubled since 2019/20, when it was around 2 million. The review was initiated last year after the government abandoned plans to make it harder to claim Pip by adjusting the assessment criteria. These earlier plans had aimed to cut £5 billion from welfare spending, prompting over 100 Labour MPs to threaten rebellion against the government. In addition to Pip, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reported a rise in claims for the health-related element of Universal Credit (UC), reaching 3.6 million in June. This represents a 23 percent increase over the past year. However, the DWP notes that 66 percent of this growth is due to the phasing out of older benefits that have been replaced by Universal Credit. Despite the withdrawal of plans to change Pip in July, the government proceeded with significant modifications to the health-related component of UC. These changes reduced the rate for new claimants by half, though those with existing claims or severe conditions still receive the previous higher rate. The DWP was contacted for further comment on these developments. The ongoing changes to both Pip and UC reflect the government's broader efforts to reform welfare systems, balancing the need to support those in need with the goal of reducing public spending. These reforms have sparked debate over the balance between fiscal responsibility and ensuring adequate support for vulnerable groups.