The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed the list of 19 weight gain conditions that make claimants eligible for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This disability and incapacity benefit can provide up to £115 per week for the daily living component and an additional £80 per week for the mobility component, resulting in a maximum weekly payment of £194.60. Payments are typically made every four weeks, totaling up to £778.40 per period.
Success Rates Vary by Condition
According to DWP caseload figures, the overall average success rate for PIP claims stands at approximately 51.63%, though this figure fluctuates significantly depending on the specific medical condition. Claimants with certain weight gain-related conditions may have higher or lower chances of approval.
List of 19 Qualifying Conditions
The DWP has identified the following conditions that can contribute to weight gain and qualify for PIP:
- Obesity
- Hyperthyroidism
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Cushing's disease
- Sleep apnoea (obstructive)
- Angioedema
- Disorders of amino acid metabolism
- Disorders of carbohydrate metabolism
- Inborn errors of metabolism (other/type not known)
- Metabolic diseases (other/type not known)
- Metabolic red cell disorders (other/type not known)
- Other metabolic and endocrine disorders of the musculoskeletal system
- Diabetes insipidus
- Diabetes mellitus (category unknown)
- Diabetes mellitus Type 1 (insulin dependent)
- Diabetes mellitus Type 2 (non insulin dependent)
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Diabetic retinopathy
Claimant Experience
One PIP recipient named Caroline shared her experience with Turn2Us, explaining that she uses most of her PIP to pay for a vehicle through the Motability scheme. She noted that while the application process is stressful, the benefit is essential for maintaining her independence.
Claimants can have someone assist them with the initial phone call, provided the claimant confirms their identity and grants permission. For those who struggle to manage the claim independently, an appointee can be appointed to handle all aspects of the claim, including receiving payments.
