Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) reviews in Scotland may be less rigorous for individuals with conditions that are unlikely to improve, according to guidance used by Social Security Scotland decision makers.
What Is Pension Age Disability Payment?
This benefit, which has replaced Attendance Allowance in Scotland, helps people over State Pension age with extra costs related to disability, illness, or long-term health conditions. As of April, 185,895 people were receiving PADP.
Following the annual uprating, the weekly payment is either £76.70 or £114.60, typically paid every four weeks, amounting to £306.80 or £458.40 per payment period.
Lighter Reviews for Some
The guidance states that reviews should reflect the likelihood of a person's needs changing over time. Those with lifelong, stable, or degenerative conditions may receive ongoing awards with less frequent reviews.
Decision makers consider whether a condition is likely to improve, whether support needs are expected to change, medical evidence, and the long-term impact on daily living. Conditions like dementia, Parkinson's, and other progressive illnesses may require less frequent reassessments.
Social Security Scotland emphasizes that reviews should be proportionate and based on individual circumstances, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
What the Review Process Involves
Reviews check if someone is receiving the correct level of support. They examine how a condition affects daily living activities, including washing, dressing, preparing food, supervision needs, staying safe, and managing medication.
Support does not always need to be hands-on; prompting, supervision, and watching over someone to prevent harm can also count toward eligibility.
During a review, individuals may be asked to provide updated information such as GP letters, consultant reports, prescription details, care plans, or information from carers or family members. Supporting information does not need to prove every detail of a condition or care needs.
Current payments usually continue while a review is ongoing. However, people must report significant changes in their condition or care needs to Social Security Scotland.
Eligibility for Pension Age Disability Payment
You can apply if you have reached State Pension age and have had care needs during the day or night for six months or more due to a disability or health condition. You can still apply if you have not had care needs for six months or more—your award will begin six months from when care needs started if successful. You can also apply if you are waiting for a diagnosis or have a terminal illness, with a separate fast-track process.
You cannot receive PADP and Attendance Allowance simultaneously. If you get Disability Living Allowance, your benefit will move to Social Security Scotland automatically.
Payment Rates
The weekly rates are £76.70 (lower rate) and £114.60 (higher rate), usually paid every four weeks, totaling £306.80 or £458.40.
How to Apply
Applications can be made online, by phone, post, or in person via mygov.scot. Those in England or Wales should apply for Attendance Allowance through the DWP.
For independent advocacy support, contact Advice Direct Scotland at 0808 196 8901 or support@advocacy.scot, or visit advocacy.scot.
