86% of Personal Independence Payments (PIP) Claimants in Folkestone and Hythe Could Lose Out

Folkestone & Hythe Liberal Democrat Councillor Tim Prater has called for the Government to urgently change course and rethink their cuts to Personal Independence Payments (PIP). New data has shown that 86% people claiming the Payment in Folkestone and Hythe 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.

In Folkestone and Hythe, 86% of claimants scored less than 4 points, meaning that they could miss out on crucial support.

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.

Tim Prater, Lib Dem Councillor for Sandgate and West Folkestone, said:

“These changes to Personal Independence Payments are deeply concerning, and I’m worried about what it could mean for vulnerable residents in Folkestone and Hythe who could lose vital parts of the benefit.

"It's not just the Liberal Democrats that think these cuts will be damaging. Yesterday Labour MP Vicky Foxcroft honorably resigned as a whip over the government's plans to cut disability benefits. I'd imagine many more Labour MPs are having problems sleeping at night about this too. It's time those MPs said so. Our area has two Labour MPs, so what do they say? What do you say, Tony Vaughan? What do you say, Sojan Joseph?

“Large numbers of people could miss out on support for 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 Government has to recognise that what they’re doing is wrong. They should change course, now."