NEW disabled benefit claimants in Bexley may need to undergo a face-to-face consultation to assess their payment.

As part of changes being made to the welfare system this year, the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) replaced Disability Living Allowance for new claims as of June 10.

PIP is based on an assessment of the need of the applicant focusing on their ability to carry out a range of key everyday activities.

Along with information from the applicant, assessors will look for evidence from healthcare and other professionals.

Most new applicants will be asked to a face-to-face consultation with a trained independent assessor as part of the claim process which will be delivered in Bexley by contractors Atos.

Cabinet member for adult services, Councillor Chris Taylor, said: "Changes to any familiar system can be daunting.

"Although the new PIP is administered by the Department of Work and Pensions we know that many of our residents will be affected and may want additional information.

"We can reassure our residents that the PIP will continue to provide a non-means-tested disability benefit to support disabled people.

"The changes will only affect new claimants to begin with."

Visit dwp.gov.uk for more information.