Over the last few years, the number of people claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for mental health problems has risen dramatically across the UK. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reports that at the end of January, more than 1.3 million people were receiving PIP for psychiatric conditions.
Consequently, if you suffer from any mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, stress reactions or depressive disorders, and it has an impact on your daily life, you may be eligible for financial help from the government.
The Surge in PIP Claims
Statistics point to a staggering increase of more than 462,000 claimants between February 2020 and January 2024. This spike is attributed to a number of factors, including increased awareness, improved diagnostics and the impact of events such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
Recently, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced plans for a consultation on PIP, citing the necessity for possible shifts in eligibility criteria, assessment processes and support mechanisms.
Who Qualifies for DWP's PIP?
Personal Income Payment (PIP) offers a vital financial support for individuals with a disability, long-term illness or mental health condition which prevents them from carrying out day-to-day tasks or moving around independently.
The allowance ranges from £28.70 to £184.30 per week, totalling £114.80-£737.20 per month. Therefore, people requiring extra help with daily living or mobility due to a mental health problem should consider applying.
To be considered eligible for the PIP, people must meet specific criteria:
- Duration of Difficulty: Experience difficulties with daily living or mobility for at least three months, with an expectation of these challenges persisting for nine months or more.
- Residency: Reside in the UK for at least two of the last three years and be present in the country at the time of application.
In addition, individuals who require assistance with various activities due to their condition are also eligible, including:
- Preparing, cooking, or eating food
- Managing medication
- Washing, bathing, or using the toilet
- Dressing and undressing
- Engaging and communicating with others
- Reading and understanding written information
- Making decisions about finances
- Planning journeys or following routes
- Moving around safely and independently
Assessments are carried out by the DWP to determine the extent to which a person has difficulty with the tasks of daily living and mobility. The factors taken into account during the assessment are as follows
- If you can do it safely
- How long it takes you
- How often your condition affects this activity
- If you need help to do it, from a person or using extra equipment
Applicants can submit a new request by contacting the DWP. Full details are available on the official GOV.UK website.