The latest statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that in April 2023, there were 5.9 million people across Scotland, England and Wales, receiving financial support through Universal Credit, a benefit intended to help those out of work or on a low income with daily living costs.
While many people are trying to find a job, better paid employment or a second income due to increased financial pressure caused by the ongoing cost of living crisis, many claiming Universal Credit or JobSeeker's Allowance may be unaware that Personal Independence Payment (PIP) supports 547 health conditions. If you have been living with a physical or mental health condition, long-term illness or a disability, you may be able to claim PIP - or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) if you're a new claimant in Scotland - on top of any other benefit without being penalised.
PIP is a benefit for those over 16 and under State Pension age and the latest DWP figures show that there are now more than 3.25 million people across Great Britain claiming PIP, with 319,000 living in Scotland. Successful PIP claimants receive financial support of between £26.90 and £172.75 each week and as the benefit is paid every four weeks, this amounts to between £107.60 and £691.00 every payment period.
