More than 500,000 UK pensioners with arthritis receive Attendance Allowance support
More than 500,000 UK pensioners with arthritis receive Attendance Allowance support
Linda Howard and Fiona Callingham Lifestyle writer
06:05, 06 Dec 2025
Older people suffering from a common condition could be entitled to financial aid worth as much as £441 per month. Pensioners afflicted with arthritis might be unaware that they are eligible for Attendance Allowance.
As highlighted by the Daily Record, recent data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) discloses that over half a million people (508,964) throughout the UK are presently receiving Attendance Allowance support due to arthritis. This makes it the most commonly claimed health condition among those of State Pension age.
Attendance Allowance is valued at either £73.90 or £110.40 weekly. This tax-free benefit is not affected by savings or income and is paid out every four weeks.
As a result, someone on the lower rate will receive £295.60 each pay period, while those on the higher rate will receive £441.40. It’s important to note that new claims for Attendance Allowance have now been replaced in Scotland by the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP).
Arthritis is the most common disabling condition – a broad term used by the DWP to cover a range of health conditions. The condition typically results in stiffness, swelling, pain and inflammation in a joint.
It accounts for more than one-third (35 per cent) of all the 1.7 million claimants on Attendance Allowance. Across the UK, it’s estimated that 20 million people are grappling with arthritis or similar conditions affecting their joints.
If you’re living with arthritis, back pain, joint or muscle discomfort, or chronic pain, you could be entitled to support from the DWP through certain benefits.
What is Attendance Allowance for?
Attendance Allowance is designed to help cover extra costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough to make self-care challenging – it does not cater to mobility needs. There’s no requirement to have a carer to apply for this benefit.
You should contemplate applying for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and need assistance or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night – even if you’re not currently receiving that help. This might include:
- Assistance with personal care – such as dressing, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, and using the toilet
- Help to ensure your safety
You should also apply if you struggle with personal tasks, for instance, if they take you a long time, cause you pain, or if you need physical support, like a chair to lean on.
Attendance Allowance isn’t solely for those with a physical disability or illness. You should also apply if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night due to:
- A mental health condition
- Learning difficulties
- A sensory condition – if you are deaf or visually impaired
How much could you get from Attendance Allowance?
You might be entitled to £73.90 if you need help either during the day or night, or £110.40 if you require assistance both during the day and at night, or if you are terminally ill. The benefit is paid out every four weeks, which means you could receive either £295.60 or £441.40 each payment cycle.
The money can be used as you see fit and could assist in prolonging your independence at home.
This could include:
- Covering taxi costs
- Helping with bills
- Hiring a cleaner or gardener
For more information, visit the Government website here.
