20 December 2017
What: The high court rules that changes to PIP regulations in March 2017 were unlawful and discriminate against disabled people. The case was taken by the Public Law Project and its client RF. The most significant change made by the regulations was to tighten the rules on access to the PIP mobility component for people unable to undertake journeys due to “overwhelming psychological distress”. The judge found that the decision to introduce the regulations was “manifestly without reasonable foundation” and that the wish to save money could not justify such an unreasonable measure. The challenge was supported by The National Autistic Society, Inclusion London, Revolving Doors, Disability Rights UK, Mind and the Equality and Human Rights Commission. The judge left no room to appeal.
Why significant: RF said that “this judgement is important for a community of people with mental health problems fighting for their lives against discrimination”.