The number of people receiving disability benefits primarily due to obesity has soared, with new figures revealing the taxpayer bill for these claims has reached nearly £144 million since 2019.
Sharp Rise in PIP and ESA Claims Linked to Weight
Data obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by ZAVA from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) shows a significant increase. In 2025, 4,413 people are claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for obesity. This marks a steep 59% rise from the 2,780 claimants recorded in January 2019.
A further 800 individuals are receiving the older Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) for the same reason. Notably, obesity-related PIP applications have one of the highest success rates at 78%, far above the average claim rate of 52%.
The Pandemic's Impact and Changing Rules
The COVID-19 lockdowns appear to have accelerated the trend. In 2020, the number of people on PIP for obesity jumped by 11% to 3,093. This aligns with a Public Health England study finding more than 40% of adults in England gained weight during the pandemic, with an average increase of 4.1kg.
The legal landscape has also evolved. In 2023, a tribunal ruled that overeating could justify awarding PIP points if it is linked to an underlying physical or mental health condition, potentially widening eligibility.
Furthermore, nearly 60% of those claiming PIP for obesity qualify for the Motability scheme, allowing them to lease a government-funded vehicle.
Government Action and Expert Analysis
The DWP is moving all remaining legacy benefit claimants, including those on ESA, onto Universal Credit. As of February 2025, the 800 ESA claimants for obesity represent a 43% drop from 2020 figures.
Dr Crystal Wyllie from ZAVA highlighted the link between obesity and unemployment, citing a Gallup poll showing obesity rates can reach 32.7% after one year of joblessness. "Tackling obesity from the top down is key here with changes to policies, healthcare initiatives, and food regulation across the nation," she said.
She pointed to recent restrictions on multibuy deals for unhealthy foods, active since October, which are projected to bring £2 billion in health benefits and save the NHS £180 million over 25 years.
A Government spokesperson stated: “Personal Independence Payments are awarded based on how a condition impacts a person’s day-to-day needs, as opposed to the condition itself.”
They added that tackling obesity is part of the 10 Year Health Plan, focusing on prevention, and that the Timms Review aims to ensure PIP is fair and fit for the future.
