Thousands of Britons suffering from long-term stomach and bowel issues could be eligible for extra financial support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Latest DWP caseload figures reveal there are currently 40,458 active Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims linked to gastrointestinal conditions across the country.
PIP is designed to assist adults under State Pension age who face daily living or mobility challenges due to a long-term illness, health condition, or disability. The benefit is non-means-tested – meaning income and savings will not affect what is received – and it is not tied to National Insurance contributions. How much a claimant receives depends entirely on the impact the condition has on their daily routine, such as preparing food, dressing, or moving around.
PIP is split into two distinct components, tailored to different areas of daily life. The Daily Living component provides support for individuals who require assistance with essential day-to-day tasks, including preparing or eating food, washing, dressing, communicating, or managing medication and treatments.
Meanwhile, the Mobility component is aimed at claimants who face significant challenges getting around, whether that involves physical movement difficulties, planning and following journeys, or simply leaving the house independently.
Depending on how severely a health condition affects a claimant’s independence, individuals may qualify for one or both parts of the benefit. Each component is awarded at either a standard or enhanced rate based on a formal assessment of the applicant’s specific needs. Payments are not a fixed average, ranging from £121.20 to £778.40 every four weeks, depending on the rates awarded.
DWP caseload statistics highlight 24 specific digestive system conditions currently receiving PIP support.
