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New data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has shown that over 1.5 million (41%) of around 3.6 million Personal Independence Payment (PIP) recipients are on an award lasting five years or more. The figures, up to the end of October, represent individuals across England, Scotland, and Wales, as well as those living abroad who currently receive support for a variety of issues, including disabilities, chronic illnesses, or mental and physical health conditions.
A significant 58% of PIP claimants dealing with visual impairments secure monthly benefits that could reach up to £737.20, allocated for at least five years. Just over half of the beneficiaries suffering from general musculoskeletal complaints like arthritis or joint pains (50.8%) have received extended awards.
Similarly, 49.5% of individuals with a neurological condition – such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and muscular dystrophy – have been granted longer-term support, reports the Daily Record. For those considering a new PIP claim, it is important to understand that the length of awards can vary greatly, ranging from nine months to a maximum of ten years, although the DWP‘s documentation only recognises awards categorised as ‘five years or longer’.
The latest PIP Handbook for 2024/25 outlines the procedure decision-makers follow when dispensing PIP awards, which depend on how a health condition or disability affects one’s daily life and independence. The handbook specifies: “The length of award will be based upon each claimant’s individual circumstances.”
Notably, DWP guidelines state that most recipients are expected to undergo regular reviews, “regardless of the length of the award”, ensuring they receive an appropriate level of support.
Some recipients, however, are given fixed-term awards for up to two years without subsequent reviews, generally in situations where improvement in health is anticipated. Furthermore, certain conditions qualify for high PIP awards.
Conditions capable of receiving high PIP award
Additionally, select recipients receive continuous awards with ‘light touch’ reviews where, as per DWP guidelines, “These claimants would not usually be expected to have a face-to-face assessment at review.”
Claiming PIP successfully now leads to additional financial aid ranging from £28.70 to £184.30 per week, and as the benefit is paid every four weeks, this amounts to between £114.80 and £737.20 each pay period. It’s crucial to note that individuals with varying health conditions can be awarded PIP for up to five years or more, with the award determined by how the condition affects the claimant.
As of the end of October 2024, the conditions listed below had the highest percentage of five-year or longer awards granted to claimants:
Who might qualify for PIP?
To be eligible for PIP, you must have a health condition or disability that has caused difficulties with daily living or mobility (or both) for three months, and these difficulties are expected to continue for at least nine months. Typically, you need to have resided in the UK for at least two of the past three years and be in the country when you apply.
In addition to the above, if your condition requires or results in assistance with any of the following, you should consider applying for PIP.
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