Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a UK government benefit for people aged 16 to state pension age who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability that affects their ability to carry out daily activities or move around. It is not means-tested, is not affected by savings or income, and can be claimed whether the person is in work or not.
How PIP is assessed
PIP is assessed against two components:
- Daily living component: covers activities such as preparing food, washing and bathing, managing medication, communicating, reading, making decisions, engaging socially, and dressing.
- Mobility component: covers planning and following journeys, and moving around.
Each component has two rates (standard and enhanced), based on the number of points scored in the assessment. A face-to-face or telephone assessment with a health professional is usually required, and the assessor then reports to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), which makes the final decision.
Why cardiac arrest survivors may be eligible
The after-effects of cardiac arrest (including cognitive impairment, fatigue, PTSD, anxiety, and physical limitations) can significantly affect daily living and mobility. Survivors who find day-to-day tasks difficult as a result of these conditions may qualify for PIP. Cognitive and psychological difficulties are assessed under the daily living component. PIP is about the effect of the condition on daily life, not the diagnosis itself.
Applying
Applications are made by calling the PIP claim line. Supporting evidence from GPs, cardiologists, neuropsychologists, or other treating clinicians can strengthen a claim. Organisations such as Citizens Advice and Disability Rights UK provide free guidance on making a PIP application, and charities such as Turn2Us offer benefits calculators.
Review and award periods
Awards are made for a fixed period and then reviewed. Ongoing entitlement is not automatic and a further assessment is required at each review.
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