The latest statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that in April 2023, there were 5.9million people across Scotland, England and Wales, receiving financial support through Universal Credit (UC), a benefit intended to help those out of work or on a low income with daily living costs.Many people are trying to find a job, better paid employment or a second income due to increased financial pressure caused by the ongoing cost of living crisis.
However, many claiming Universal Credit or JobSeeker's Allowance (JSA) may be unaware that Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could provide extra money to help with daily living or mobility costs as.PIP is tax-free and does not affect the benefit cap, which means a single claimant over 25 on Universal Credit or JSA making a new claim for the disability benefit, could potentially receive up to £1,059.74 each month.
It’s important to be aware that the condition itself will not qualify for PIP, it’s how it affects a person’s daily living and/or mobility needs.PIP is a benefit for those over 16 and under State Pension age and the latest DWP figures show that there are now more than 3.25million people across Great Britain claiming the benefit, with 319,000 in Scotland.The biggest misconception about PIP is that the DWP will only award the benefit to people with outwardly visible physical, long-term health conditions or disabilities.
In fact, PIP is a benefit aimed at providing support for people with an ever-evolving list of 'hidden' conditions, including stress, anxiety and depression.If you have been living with a physical or mental health condition, long-term illness or a disability, you may be able to claim PIP - or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) if you're a new