The Department for Work and Pensions has published a list of 25 gastrointestinal conditions that could qualify people for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Claimants can be awarded up to £194.90 a week, which translates to £779.60 every four weeks.
PIP helps people with extra living costs for those who have long-term physical or mental health conditions that cause challenges with everyday tasks or getting around. The latest DWP figures show that 40,458 active PIP claims are linked to gastrointestinal conditions across the nation.
Entitlement is based on how a condition impacts daily living and mobility, rather than the diagnosis itself. Therefore, those with conditions not listed could still qualify for the benefit.
PIP components and rates
PIP is not means-tested. This means that people can receive it even if they are working, have savings, or are claiming other support. It is made up of two components: the daily living, which is £76.55 a week (standard) or £114.80 (enhanced), and mobility, which is £30.20 a week (standard) or £80.10 (enhanced). An individual receiving both enhanced rates would receive £194.90 per week, totalling £779.60 every four weeks.
How the DWP assesses claims
The DWP assesses how difficult claimants find specific tasks, including preparing food, managing medicines, washing, dressing, socialising and handling money. Mobility assessments consider a person’s ability to plan journeys, follow routes and physically move around, with individuals having to experience difficulties on more than half of days over 12 months to be eligible. People nearing the end of life automatically qualify for the daily living component and may also receive mobility support depending on their needs.
Full list of gastrointestinal conditions with active PIP claims
Crohn’s disease — 12,346; Ulcerative colitis — 5,897; Irritable bowel syndrome — 3,288; Diverticular disease / diverticulitis — 2,845; Other GI tract conditions (NEC) — 2,844; Oesophagus, stomach & duodenum disorders (NEC) — 2,354; Hernia — 2,123; Small bowel conditions — 1,925; Attention to artificial openings (colostomy, ileostomy, stoma) — 1,574; Hiatus hernia & reflux conditions — 1,537; Coeliac disease — 618; Peptic ulcer — 514; Other rectal & anal conditions — 438; Fistula in anus — 370; Rectal prolapse — 262; Constipation — 173; Haemorrhoids — 118; Cleft lip with cleft palate — 117; Benign GI tumours — 114; Tracheo‑oesophageal fistula — 112; Hirschsprung disease — 99; Anorectal abscess — 90; Oesophageal varices — 58; Cleft lip — 8.
People whose gastrointestinal condition significantly affects their independence may qualify for PIP even if their diagnosis is not included. DWP officers may also be available for home visits to support individuals in completing their claim. Individuals can also get help from Citizens Advice, British Sign Language video guides and easy-read materials.
