Thousands of 'sickfluencers' are sharing advice on how to claim large sums in sickness benefits across internet platforms, a new report has found. The centre-right think tank Policy Exchange warned that this online coaching will fuel Britain's economic inactivity and continue to pressure the health and disability benefits system.
Many claimants are using AI tools such as ChatGPT to enhance their applications and fraudulently obtain benefits, even without medical evidence. Social media videos explain how up to £66,000 can be claimed annually for conditions like ADHD, with some posts detailing which symptoms to describe and providing example answers. Others advise claiming expenses for headphones, laptops, and taxis to work.
The influencers have been accused of convincing users to make claims they might not have considered, fostering an 'entitlement culture'. The report was backed by Reform UK Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick, who said: 'It's increasingly clear people are gaming the system, spurred on by social media influencers... The authorities should be coming down on welfare scammers like a ton of bricks.'
Around 1.5 million people claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for mental health conditions, a rise of 100,000 in a year. Figures show 16.8 million people considered themselves disabled in 2023-24, up 19% from 2013-14. The report estimates economic inactivity due to ill-health costs £212 billion per year.
However, the report also identifies groups not accessing appropriate support and those clearly entitled to support. The 'grey area' group comprises those who do not warrant long-term support but could benefit from short-term interventions. Some social media users have defended the influencers, saying they help people access additional help not provided by authorities.
The Policy Exchange report recommended tighter assessment standards requiring medical documentation and in-person assessments to verify claims and bolster the system.
