Nearly half a million older people across Great Britain currently receive financial assistance through Attendance Allowance, a non-means-tested benefit designed to support those living with long-term health conditions.
Among these claimants, the most frequently cited condition is arthritis, a widespread issue that affects daily living for millions beyond State Pension age.
According to a recent report from the Daily Record, arthritis remains the top reason for new applications, reflecting both its prevalence and impact on quality of life. The allowance provides regular financial support to help manage care needs, offering some stability for those facing chronic joint conditions.
Arthritis as the Leading Cause for Attendance Allowance Claims
Recent data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) shows that arthritis accounts for 35% of all Attendance Allowance claims among people over State Pension age.
This umbrella term refers to a wide range of joint-related disorders that typically cause stiffness, swelling, pain and inflammation in one or more joints. Across the UK, an estimated 20 million people are affected by arthritis or similar musculoskeletal conditions.
Out of 1.7 million current Attendance Allowance recipients, approximately 500,000 report arthritis as their primary condition. In Scotland, 44,455 individuals are receiving the benefit, along with 1,786 pensioners residing abroad.
The number of Attendance Allowance claimants as of August 2024 is as follows:
- Scotland: 149,997
- England: 1,406,281
- Wales: 110,047
- Living abroad: 5,612
- Great Britain total: 1,672,590
What the Benefit Covers and Who Is Eligible
Attendance Allowance is designed to help with extra costs arising from physical or mental health conditions that make personal care difficult. It does not cover mobility needs and does not require you to have a carer in place to be eligible.
You may be eligible if you need help or supervision during the day, night, or both. This support might involve assistance with everyday personal tasks such as getting dressed, eating or drinking, bathing or showering, getting in and out of bed, or going to the toilet.
You should also consider applying if these tasks take you a long time to complete, cause pain, or require physical assistance—such as needing to lean on a chair for support.
The benefit is open to individuals with a wide range of conditions, including mental health disorders, learning disabilities, and sensory impairments such as deafness or visual impairment.
How Much Can Be Claimed and How It Is Paid
Attendance Allowance is tax-free and not affected by income or savings.
It is paid at two weekly rates: £73.90 for those who require care either during the day or at night, and £110.40 for individuals who need care both during the day and at night, or who are terminally ill.
Payments are issued every four weeks, amounting to £295.60 or £441.40 per pay cycle. The money can be used freely, often helping recipients maintain their independence by contributing to everyday costs or personal support services.
Receiving Attendance Allowance does not reduce your State Pension and may, in fact, increase your entitlement to other benefits such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction.
The allowance is also available to individuals who are still working, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Transition to Pension Age Disability Payment in Scotland
In Scotland, new applications for Attendance Allowance are now handled through the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP), managed by Social Security Scotland.
This devolved benefit mirrors the payment structure of Attendance Allowance and aims to streamline access.
To be eligible for PADP, individuals must have reached State Pension age (66 or older) and have required care for at least six months, unless they are terminally ill.
A formal diagnosis is not required at the time of application, and if applicants are already receiving Attendance Allowance, the transition to PADP will be managed automatically.
How to Apply and Where to Get Support
The application process involves completing a detailed form available from GOV.UK. If support is needed, Citizens Advice can assist with form completion.
In Scotland, VoiceAbility, funded by the Scottish Government, offers a nationwide advocacy service for those applying for devolved disability benefits.
Those approaching State Pension age are advised to consider Personal Independence Payment (PIP) if they qualify, as it may offer higher financial support. It is not possible to receive Attendance Allowance if you are currently claiming PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
