Disability Benefits and related support

If your condition is impacting on your everyday life, you may be eligible for disability benefits. Personal Independence payment PIP or Adult Disability payment, ADP (Scotland).

These benefits are designed to help with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability. They are not means-tested or affected by earnings or savings.

If you’re awarded the higher rate mobility part of PIP or ADP (Scotland), with at least 12 months left on your award, you are eligible to apply for the Motability Scheme.

This allows you to exchange your qualifying mobility allowance for a brand-new car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle), scooter or powered wheelchair.  If you are unable to drive, you can nominate someone to drive for you.  If you are considering applying for one of these benefits it is advisable to seek support from a welfare adviser or benefits support service in your area.

Disabled Parking

Parking can be an issue if you have arthritis. The disabled parking (blue badge) scheme is available to anyone who meets the criteria.  If you are in receipt of certain benefits, you may automatically qualify.  You can still apply for a parking badge, if you do not receive these benefits but may need to provide additional information or undergo an assessment.

For those in Northern Ireland applications and information is available here.

It is recommended you seek support and advice when applying for benefits from your local welfare, disability or citizens advice service.