The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has identified 18 blood-related conditions among claims for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), with eligible claimants able to receive up to £748 a month.
DWP data shows there are currently 10,014 PIP claims recorded across the 18 blood-condition categories. The figures follow the annual benefit increase earlier this year, which saw PIP rates rise by 3.8% in April.
Full list of 18 blood conditions
The 18 blood condition categories listed in the latest data are:
- Aplastic anaemia
- B12 (pernicious) or folate-deficiency anaemia
- Iron-deficiency anaemia
- Other anaemia or anaemia type not known
- Sickle cell anaemia
- Other haemolytic disorders or type not known
- Hereditary spherocytosis
- Thalassaemia
- Glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
- Other metabolic red cell disorders or type not known
- Polycythaemia
- Other clotting disorders or type not known
- Haemophilia A
- Haemophilia B (Christmas disease, named after the person first diagnosed with it)
- Von Willebrand's disease
- Autoimmune (idiopathic) thrombocytopaenic purpura (ITP)
- Other platelet disorders or type not known
- Blood disorders where the type is not known
However, having one of these conditions will not automatically mean the person concerned will receive PIP. The benefit is based upon how a condition affects the ability to get around and to carry out everyday activities.
How PIP eligibility is assessed
Rather than simply accepting the condition diagnosis, the DWP will consider whether the person has difficulties with tasks such as cooking, washing, managing medication and moving around. The condition must also have caused difficulties for at least three months and be expected to continue for at least nine months.
PIP is split into two parts: a daily living component and a mobility component. The amount received is dependent upon the level of help needed. The current standard daily living rate is £76.55 a week, while an enhanced rate is £114.80. The standard mobility rate is £30.20 a week, with the enhanced rate being £80.10.
Someone eligible for the enhanced daily living rate alongside the relevant mobility payment could receive up to £187 a week, which is around £748 over four weeks. PIP is not means-tested, so a person's income, savings or employment status will not determine whether they can claim.
Not exhaustive list
The DWP also stresses that its list of 18 blood conditions is not exhaustive - other conditions may still qualify if they cause sufficient difficulties with daily living or mobility. A range of other long-term physical or mental health conditions or disabilities can qualify for PIP, and more information about the benefit can be found on the Government website.
