Arthritis affects millions across the UK, making it one of the most common long-term health conditions. Around 10 million people have Osteoarthritis (OA), with 5.4 million experiencing knee OA and 3.2 million living with hip OA.
Additionally, about 450,000 adults are diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, and nearly 190,000 are estimated to have Psoriatic Arthritis.
Moreover, over 20 million people (20,295,706) — nearly a third of the UK population — live with a musculoskeletal (MSK) condition, including 11.6 million women and 8.7 million men of all ages.
To support those impacted, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers several financial aids and benefits tailored to people with arthritis.
Six Key DWP Benefits for Arthritis Patients
1. Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) – Up to £140
ESA is designed for individuals whose disability or health condition limits their ability to work. It offers:
- Financial support if you’re unable to work
- Guidance and help to return to work when possible
- Eligibility for employed, self-employed, or unemployed individuals
Payments can reach £92.05 to £140.55 per week, depending on your application stage, age, and work capability.
2. Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Up to £110
PIP helps cover extra living expenses if you have:
- A long-term health condition or disability
- Difficulty with daily tasks or mobility
You can receive PIP regardless of your employment or savings. Current rates include:
- £73.90 (lower) to £110.40 (higher) per week for daily living
- £29.20 (lower) to £77.05 (enhanced) per week for mobility support
3. Attendance Allowance – Up to £110
This benefit supports those with severe disabilities or conditions requiring personal care. It offers:
- £73.90 per week if help is needed during day or night
- £110.40 per week if help is needed during both day and night
Those nearing end of life can apply through a faster process.
4. Universal Credit (UC) – Varies (Approx. £100)
Universal Credit helps cover living costs and is usually paid monthly. Key details:
- Payment varies if you have weekly income or five-week months
- Additional sums may be added depending on circumstances
- You must be under State Pension age and have £16,000 or less in savings
5. Carer’s Allowance – £83.30
If you care for someone at least 35 hours per week who receives certain benefits, you could get £83.30 weekly.
- You don’t need to be related to or live with the person
- Only one carer can claim per cared-for person
- No extra pay for caring for multiple people
6. Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for Children – Up to £187.45
DLA helps with extra costs of caring for a child under 16 who has mobility challenges or requires more care than peers.
- The rate ranges from £29.20 to £187.45 per week
- Amount depends on the level of care needed
- Children must meet specific eligibility criteria
Living with arthritis can be physically and financially challenging, but the DWP provides essential support through a range of benefits designed to reduce the financial strain.
From ESA and PIP to Universal Credit and DLA, these payments can offer crucial relief and improve quality of life for individuals and families managing long-term health conditions.
FAQs
Can I get more than one DWP benefit for arthritis?
Yes, you can qualify for multiple benefits simultaneously if you meet the eligibility criteria for each.
Does having savings affect my eligibility for these benefits?
PIP, DLA, and Attendance Allowance are not means-tested, while Universal Credit considers savings over £16,000.
How do I apply for these benefits?
You can apply online through the DWP website or contact the DWP by phone for guidance and application forms.
