The latest data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reveals that as of January, nearly 138,000 individuals were receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for assistance with respiratory conditions.
This includes severe conditions like asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asbestosis, and more. In this article, we will look into the details of these claims, the support available, and the eligibility criteria.
Respiratory Conditions Eligible for PIP
Respiratory conditions can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life, affecting their ability to perform routine tasks. These conditions include:
- Severe asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pneumonia
- Asbestosis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Bronchiectasis
- Sleep apnoea and more.
For those with these conditions, PIP can provide crucial financial support to help with everyday living and mobility challenges. Asthma and Living UK reports that about 5.4 million people in the UK are currently being treated for asthma alone, highlighting the widespread nature of respiratory issues.
Financial Support Through PIP and ADP
PIP is available to people experiencing difficulties in daily life due to their condition. Successful claimants can receive weekly payments ranging from £29.20 to £187.45, which adds up to a maximum of £8,988 per year.
This is paid in four-weekly instalments, meaning claimants can receive between £116.80 and £749.80 every pay period.
For individuals in Scotland, those whose PIP claims are still being transferred to Adult Disability Payment (ADP) may also be eligible for support.
Understanding How PIP is Assessed
The key factor in receiving PIP is not the medical condition itself, but how it affects a person’s ability to carry out daily tasks. The DWP’s assessment process looks at:
- The impact of your condition on day-to-day living and mobility
- How much support is required for tasks like eating, bathing, dressing, and managing treatments
- Your ability to move around, manage finances, and interact with others
The DWP makes determinations based on independent assessments and available evidence, which means individuals with the same condition may receive different outcomes depending on their personal challenges and circumstances.
Eligibility Criteria for PIP and ADP
To qualify for PIP or ADP, the following criteria must be met:
- You must be facing difficulties in day-to-day living or mobility (or both) for at least three months.
- These difficulties should be expected to last for at least nine months.
- You must have lived in the UK for at least two out of the last three years and be in the country when applying.
Additionally, if you need help with tasks like:
- Navigating routes or leaving your home
- Personal care (washing, dressing, using the toilet)
- Preparing food, eating, or drinking
- Managing medications or treatments
- Moving around physically or making decisions about money
- Socialising and interacting with others
You may be eligible to apply for PIP or ADP.
Applying for PIP or ADP
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for PIP or ADP. To begin the process, contact the DWP and submit your claim. Detailed instructions on how to apply are available on the GOV.UK website.
For terminally ill individuals, different rules apply, and these can be found on the GOV.UK website as well.
For those with respiratory conditions, PIP or ADP can provide vital financial support to manage daily life. With financial assistance ranging from £116.80 to £749.80 every four weeks, it can significantly ease the burden caused by severe health issues.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a respiratory condition and needs help with daily living tasks, exploring PIP or ADP eligibility is an important step toward getting the necessary support.
FAQs
Who is eligible for PIP due to respiratory conditions?
To be eligible for PIP due to respiratory conditions, individuals must have difficulties in daily living or mobility caused by their condition, such as asthma, COPD, or other respiratory illnesses. You must have had these difficulties for at least three months and expect them to last for at least nine months. Additionally, you need to reside in the UK and meet the other general eligibility requirements.
How much financial support can I get from PIP for respiratory conditions?
Financial support for respiratory conditions through PIP can range from £29.20 to £187.45 per week, depending on the severity of your condition and its impact on your daily life. This adds up to a maximum of £8,988 per year. Payments are made every four weeks, equating to £116.80 to £749.80 per pay period.
How does PIP assess the impact of respiratory conditions?
PIP is assessed based on how a person’s respiratory condition affects their ability to perform daily tasks, rather than the condition itself. The assessment looks at how difficulties with mobility, personal care, and other daily activities impact a person’s life, including tasks like bathing, eating, managing treatments, and socialising.
What respiratory conditions are eligible for PIP?
Eligible respiratory conditions for PIP include asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), emphysema, pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, and other severe lung diseases. Conditions like obstructive sleep apnoea and diseases related to lung damage from substances like asbestos are also covered.
