Personal Independence Payment
A long term mental or physical health condition can be extremely challenging for the individual to live with, navigate and manage. Doing so also often comes with extra costs connected, which can significantly increase financial pressure.
The Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can award up to £798 per month to help towards these extra costs, yet many people do not claim – whether it’s because they don’t know they are eligible, or because of the stigma and barriers attached to claiming benefits. Unfortunately, this means that people who are entitled to support often struggle without it.
Our Money Matters Report showed that:
57% of respondents with a disability or long-term health condition were finding it “very” or “quite difficult to manage financially”
90% of respondents were not claiming PIP*
*Not all respondents may meet the eligibility criteria.
Everything you need to know about Personal Independence Payment
Learn about PIP, who can claim it, and the resources available to help you navigate the application process.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a UK state benefit designed to help cover extra costs associated with long-term health conditions or disabilities. These conditions can be physical, sensory, mental, intellectual, or cognitive - or a combination of these. PIP is not based on specific medical conditions or diagnoses. Instead, it is based on how your condition affects your daily living or mobility.
Unlike many benefits, PIP is not means-tested or taxable, meaning:
- You can claim it whether you are employed, self-employed, or unemployed.
- It is not affected by your savings or income.
Extra support PIP could provide
If your claim is successful, you could receive:
- Extra money alongside your existing benefits
- Council Tax or road tax reductions
- Exemption from the Benefit Cap
- Higher Local Housing Allowance if you're under 35
- A Blue Badge for parking
- Access to the Motability Scheme
- Travel discounts and other financial perks
If you are living with an illness or disability, the process of applying for PIP can feel very overwhelming. But there is support available to help you navigate the application.
Local Advice Services
As many will find they need extra support at some point in the process, you can find local advice services that can assist. For more information on other support that can be found via the Turn2Us PIP helper tool.
Support from the Film and TV Charity
If you work in the film, TV, or cinema industry, you may be eligible for assistance from our Work and Wellbeing Advisors. They can provide tailored guidance to help you navigate the PIP application process.
Many claimants do not continue their PIP appeal to tribunal stage, despite the fact that research has shown that seven in ten appeals are eventually successful. Claiming PIP is not easy, especially if you have a fluctuating or hidden condition or a disability that does not feel adequately catered for in the current application process.
However, for many of those who are eligible, receiving it could significantly improve their financial situation and overall wellbeing, and can even have a hugely positive impact on their condition and quality of life by making vital resources accessible.
Several organisations provide expert advice on claiming PIP:
- Citizens Advice: Comprehensive guidance on eligibility, applications, and appeals.
- Mental Health & Money Advice: Resources for those with mental health conditions navigating the benefit system.
Personal Independence Payment tool
The PIP Helper tool from Turn2Us, is an invaluable resource for applicants. Designed in collaboration with former claimants, this tool ensures a less stressful experience for those applying for Personal Independence Payment. The tool will help you by:
- Guiding you through the PIP application process
- Providing personalised tips
- Giving you advice on how to prioritise your wellbeing throughout the process
Additional support
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Benefits support
Find out how to access benefits and welfare support as a film, TV, or cinema worker in the UK.
