Attendance Allowance is a financial support aimed at helping older individuals manage daily challenges linked to long-term health conditions. While many people may be unaware they qualify, a growing number are now receiving this benefit across the UK.
According to Daily Record, new figures reveal a significant trend related to one specific condition affecting older adults.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recently published updated data highlighting shifts in how this support is being claimed, who is receiving it, and under what criteria. A closer look at the figures offers insight into the scale of current claims and eligibility.
Arthritis Dominates Attendance Allowance Claims
Figures released by the DWP show that there are now 586,000 people claiming Attendance Allowance due to arthritis, making it the single most common condition among the 1.67 million claims across Great Britain.
This includes 1,406,281 claimants in England, 149,997 in Scotland, 110,047 in Wales, and 5,612 people living abroad.
In Scotland alone, more than 44,550 older people are receiving the benefit specifically for arthritis, in addition to the nearly 1,800 claimants living abroad.
Starting April 7, Attendance Allowance will be paid at a weekly rate of £72.65 for those needing help during the day or at night, and £108.55 for those needing help both day and night or for those who are terminally ill.
Since the payment is issued every four weeks, eligible individuals will receive either £290.60 or £434.20 each pay period. As the DWP confirms, this benefit is tax-free, not means-tested, and unaffected by savings, income or the Benefit Cap.
Who Can Apply and What Conditions Are Covered
Attendance Allowance is for people with a physical or mental disability or illness that makes it hard to care for themselves, regardless of whether they currently receive help. According to GOV.UK, “You do not have to have someone caring for you in order to claim.”
Eligible individuals may need assistance with daily tasks such as getting in and out of bed, dressing, bathing, eating, or using the toilet.
It also applies to those who need supervision to remain safe during the day or night, or who rely on physical aids such as a chair to lean on while performing tasks.
The condition does not need to be physical. Claimants with mental health conditions, learning disabilities, or sensory impairments such as hearing or vision loss can also qualify.
A separate and faster process is available for those nearing the end of life. As stated on GOV.UK, “There’s a different way to claim if you’re nearing the end of life (for example, because you have a life-limiting illness).”
No Impact on Other Income or Pensions
Claimants can receive Attendance Allowance in addition to their State Pension and other income. They can also be employed and still qualify. Receiving Attendance Allowance may increase entitlement to other benefits, such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.
Applying involves completing a long claim form (AA1), which can be requested by phone or post, and support is available. As the guidance notes:
“It might seem daunting at first but help is available from your nearest Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form put you off applying.”
Practical Uses for the Payment
There are no restrictions on how the money is spent. Claimants often use it to maintain independence and improve quality of life. This might include paying for taxis, contributing toward energy or food bills, or hiring a cleaner or gardener.
Scotland is replacing Attendance Allowance with the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP), administered by Social Security Scotland. As of March 2024, PADP is available in Argyll and Bute, Highland, Aberdeen City, Orkney, and Shetland.
The rollout will expand to 13 more council areas before launching nationwide in April. Individuals who already receive Attendance Allowance do not need to reapply. The Scottish Government confirms,
“You’ll automatically be moved to Pension Age Disability Payment from spring 2025.”
Claimants who move from Scotland to England or Wales must notify Social Security Scotland and apply for Attendance Allowance within 13 weeks to avoid disruption to their payments.
PIP and ADP for Those Below Pension Age
People under State Pension age with similar health needs are advised to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in England and Wales or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) in Scotland. The government recommends this course, stating:
“If you are thinking about applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) straight away – you may be able to get more money.”
