The latest statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that in April 2023, there were 5.9million people across Scotland, England and Wales, receiving financial support through Universal Credit (UC), a benefit intended to help those out of work or on a low income with daily living costs.
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. However, many claiming Universal Credit or JobSeeker's Allowance (JSA) may be unaware that Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) could provide extra money to help with daily living or mobility costs.
PIP and the devolved ADP are tax-free payments that do not affect the benefit cap, which means a single claimant over 25 on Universal Credit or JSA making a new claim for either benefit (ADP has replaced all new claims for PIP in Scotland), could potentially receive up to £691 each month. It’s important to be aware that the condition itself will not qualify for PIP or ADP, it’s how it affects a person’s daily living and/or mobility needs.
