AQW 45277/22-27

Ms Sian Mulholland
Alliance Party
North Antrim

Tabled Date: 30/04/2026
Answered On Date: 18/05/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on his Department’s rectification plan with Capita, in relation to the processing of Personal Independence Payment applications and reviews.

Answer:

From October 2025 to January 2026, Capita transitioned from their PIP IT system to IT provided by the Department for Work and Pensions. During this planned transition Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment waiting times increased. This is consistent with Capita’s delivery in GB. This was compounded by capacity challenges experienced by Capita during the same period. On 10 March 2026, my officials requested a recovery plan from Capita. In response, Capita have implemented a range of initiatives, including recruitment drives and strengthening staff retention. Under Capita’s plan, the volume of monthly PIP assessments will increase over the coming months, and my officials will continue to robustly challenge and monitor Capita’s performance closely.