Nearly 1.7 million people in England and Wales receiving Attendance Allowance could see their payments rise by up to £151.60 a month if they report a change in their condition to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Figures from the DWP show that at the end of November 2025, around 1.7 million people across England and Wales were receiving additional financial support through Attendance Allowance. In Scotland, more than 185,800 people were claiming the devolved benefit, Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP). Both payments provide support to those over State Pension age with a disability, long-term illness or health condition.
How the payments work
Attendance Allowance and PADP are not means-tested, tax-free and worth either £76.70 or £114.60 each week. As the benefits are typically paid every four weeks, this amounts to either £306.80 or £458.40 per payment period. There is no mobility component attached to either benefit.
For those on the lower rate of £76.70 per week, payments could increase by £36.50 to the higher rate of £114.60 if their condition has worsened. Monthly payments would rise by £151.60 from £306.80 to £451.80.
Reporting a change in circumstances
The DWP advises that if circumstances change, the amount received from Attendance Allowance may go up or down. People on the lower rate who have developed further health issues or whose condition has declined since their award began should contact the DWP or Social Security Scotland to report a change.
Reasons to contact the DWP about a change include: the level of help needed or condition changes, going into hospital or a care home, a medical professional saying someone has 12 months or less to live, leaving the country for more than four weeks, going into prison, changing name, address or bank details, wanting to stop receiving the benefit, or a change in immigration status for non-British citizens.
People should consider reporting a change if they need more help with personal care, such as getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, or going to the toilet. Help to stay safe is also a factor. Those experiencing more difficulties completing personal tasks, for example if tasks take a long time, cause pain, or require physical help, should also report a change.
The DWP notes that Attendance Allowance is not just for people with a physical disability or illness. People with mental health conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory conditions such as being deaf or blind should also consider reporting a change if they need more help or supervision throughout the day or night.
Common conditions and how to claim
The most common condition claimed on Attendance Allowance is arthritis, with some 512,300 people receiving support for it. However, there are nearly 50 conditions supported by the benefit, including heart disease, dementia, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
People can contact the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122, Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm. For those in Scotland claiming PADP, a change in circumstances can be reported by calling 0800 182 2222. Full guidance for PADP is available on MYGOV.SCOT.
