Over 1.5 million people in the UK, or 42.4% of all PIP claimants, now have awards lasting five years or more, according to recent data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). These payments support individuals with physical, mental, or both types of disabilities, providing crucial financial assistance to help manage their daily living and mobility needs.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding PIP, its Scottish counterpart ADP, eligibility criteria, payment rates, and how to apply.
PIP and ADP
PIP is a UK-wide benefit designed to help people with disabilities or long-term health conditions. In Scotland, new claims for PIP have been replaced by ADP, which follows similar eligibility and payment criteria.
| Component | Standard Rate (weekly) | Enhanced Rate (weekly) |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £72.65 | £108.55 |
| Mobility | £28.70 | £75.75 |
Payment Frequency: Every four weeks (weekly for terminally ill claimants).
Key Statistics
Recent figures reveal insights into the length and distribution of PIP awards:
| Condition | Total Claimants | 5-Year+ Awards | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual disease | 59,085 | 34,692 | 58.7% |
| Musculoskeletal disease (general) | 672,201 | 341,434 | 50.8% |
| Neurological disease | 465,187 | 230,412 | 49.5% |
| Respiratory disease | 138,003 | 64,835 | 46.9% |
| Autoimmune disease | 19,240 | 8,697 | 45.2% |
| Musculoskeletal disease (regional) | 416,878 | 185,916 | 44.6% |
Award Lengths
- Five years or more: Common for claimants with stable or worsening conditions, including visual, neurological, and musculoskeletal diseases.
- Two-year restricted awards: Issued if the claimant’s condition is expected to improve, with no review during this term.
- Light touch reviews: For stable, high-level needs or those approaching State Pension age.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for PIP or ADP, you must:
- Have a qualifying health condition or disability that affects your daily living or mobility for at least three months and is expected to continue for at least nine months.
- Reside in the UK for at least two of the last three years and be present in the country when applying.
Conditions Assessed
Claimants may qualify if they need help with:
- Preparing, cooking, or eating food.
- Managing medication or treatment.
- Washing, bathing, or using the toilet.
- Dressing and undressing.
- Engaging or communicating with others.
- Making decisions about money.
- Planning and following journeys.
- Moving around safely.
Terminal Illness: Fast-tracked applications and weekly payments apply under special rules.
Assessment Process
Claimants undergo an assessment by an independent healthcare professional to determine eligibility and the rate of support. Assessments may be conducted:
- Face-to-face.
- By phone or video call.
- On paper (preferred for claimants with strong medical evidence).
ADP Assessments
Unlike PIP, ADP avoids face-to-face assessments unless requested by the claimant, offering a more claimant-friendly process.
How to Apply
To make a new claim for PIP, contact the DWP. You’ll need:
- Contact details and date of birth.
- National Insurance number.
- Bank account information.
- Details of your doctor or healthcare professional.
- Dates and addresses for any time spent abroad, in care, or in a hospital.
Visit the GOV.UK website for detailed instructions.
Applying for ADP
In Scotland, you can apply for ADP:
- Online at mygov.scot.
- By calling Social Security Scotland at 0800 182 2222.
- By post or in person.
FAQs
How often is PIP paid?
PIP is paid every four weeks, except for terminal cases, which are weekly.
What’s the difference between PIP and ADP?
ADP is Scotland’s version of PIP, with similar criteria and rates.
Can PIP awards last more than five years?
Yes, 42.4% of claimants have awards lasting five years or longer.
What’s the standard rate for PIP mobility?
The standard rate for mobility is £28.70 per week.
Do I need face-to-face assessments for ADP?
No, ADP assessments are not face-to-face unless requested.
