If you have a respiratory condition that affects your life daily, then you could be entitled to the disability benefit PIP. PIP is awarded to people who have difficulty doing certain everyday tasks due to an illness, disability or mental health condition. It is claimed by more than 3.6 million people, according to the latest figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
PIP comes in two parts, and you could be entitled to one, or both, rates. There is the daily living rate, which is currently worth £72.65 a week for the lower level, or £108.55 a week for the higher rate. There is also the mobility part of PIP, which is worth £28.70 a week for the lower level, and £75.75 a week for the higher level. If you're awarded both parts at the higher rates, then you would receive £737.20 in PIP payments every four weeks.
The latest data from the DWP for PIP claimants at the end of October, 2024 shows 138,534 people were claiming PIP due to respiratory issues, including asthma, diseases of the upper respiratory tract, pulmonary fibrosis and cystic fibrosis. But rather than PIP being awarded solely on a set list of conditions, your eligibility is based on how your illness affects your life. Most people normally need an assessment to determine if they're eligible for PIP, during which you'll be asked to explain how your condition affects your life.
If the DWP decides you're eligible for PIP, you'll usually be awarded it for a set period of time - normally this is between one year to ten years - before your claim needs to be reviewed. Your award of PIP might change if your health gets better, or if your condition gets worse. It is down to claimants to let the DWP know if their health has changed. According to GOV.UK, you need to report the following changes:.
