If you suffer from a respiratory health condition that impacts your daily activities, you may be eligible for financial assistance through Personal Independence Payments (PIP).
This support is designed for individuals with long-term health conditions that make it difficult for them to carry out daily tasks or get around.
Two Parts of PIP
PIP consists of two components:
- Daily Living Component: For those needing help with everyday tasks.
- Mobility Component: For those who need assistance with getting around.
The amount you receive depends on how severely your condition impacts your ability to manage day-to-day activities or move around.
Who Can Qualify for PIP with Respiratory Conditions?
Many individuals may not realize that those with respiratory issues can qualify for PIP. Conditions such as severe asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asbestosis, and other diseases affecting breathing may make you eligible for this benefit.
According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), by the end of January, 137,957 people were receiving PIP due to a respiratory condition. The weekly value of PIP ranges from £29.20 to £187.45, and since it’s paid every four weeks, that amounts to between £116.80 and £749.80 per month.
Respiratory Conditions Covered by PIP
The following respiratory issues may qualify for PIP:
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Asbestosis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Bronchiectasis
- Sleep apnoea and many others.
These conditions significantly impact breathing and can severely hinder a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. PIP aims to help those whose health is compromised due to these conditions.
PIP Claimants for Respiratory Conditions – January 2025 Data
Here’s a breakdown of claimants receiving PIP for respiratory conditions across the UK:
- Scotland: 1,261
- England and Wales: 136,611
- Living Abroad: 67
- Unknown: 30
The total number of claimants for respiratory conditions in Great Britain stands at 137,957.
How PIP is Assessed
The key factor in determining eligibility for PIP is not the specific condition but rather how the condition affects your daily life. The assessment considers:
- Your ability to perform daily living tasks.
- Your mobility and the level of assistance you need.
A health professional conducts an assessment to evaluate the limitations caused by your condition and provides a report to the PIP decision maker, who will make the final determination on your entitlement, payment amount, and duration.
If you have a respiratory condition that makes it difficult for you to manage daily activities, you may be eligible for PIP.
The benefit is designed to support individuals in maintaining a level of independence, based on the specific challenges posed by their health condition.
It’s important to understand that PIP eligibility is determined by the impact on your life rather than the condition itself.
FAQs
What respiratory conditions are eligible for PIP?
Conditions like COPD, severe asthma, asbestosis, and sleep apnoea can qualify for PIP, depending on how they affect your daily life.
How much will I receive from PIP?
The payment ranges between £29.20 to £187.45 per week, depending on the severity of your condition and the assistance you need.
How is eligibility for PIP determined?
Eligibility is based on how your condition affects your ability to perform daily tasks and mobility, rather than the condition itself.