Young people make up third of new PIP anxiety disorder claims

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 08:31 · Archive

Nearly 30% of recent PIP claimants citing anxiety disorders are aged 16 to 24.

Young people aged 16 to 24 make up the largest proportion of recent claimants receiving Personal Independence Payment for anxiety disorders, with nearly one in three falling into this age group. Analysis of Department for Work and Pensions figures found that 7,403 of the 24,681 people in England and Wales who had been receiving PIP for anxiety disorders for up to two years were aged 16 to 24, representing 30% of recent claimants. A further 22% were aged 25 to 34, meaning more than half of recent claimants whose primary recorded condition is an anxiety disorder are under 35.

PIP is the main disability benefit in England and Wales for people with long-term physical or mental health conditions or disabilities affecting daily life. It is intended to help with additional living costs associated with a person's condition. People can claim PIP from age 16, even if they are working or have savings.

Of claimants who had been receiving PIP for anxiety for up to two years, 22% were aged 35 to 44, 14% were aged 45 to 54, 11% were aged 55 to 64, and just 2% were aged 65 or over. A leading psychiatrist has warned that official statistics may not tell the full story about people's health conditions and the reasons they need support.

Young people make up third of new PIP anxiety disorder claims — Image: Darlington & Stockton Times

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How it is being reported

PIP review warning as thousands of young people claim DWP benefits for anxietyPIP figures reveal that 30% of recent claimants with anxiety disorders are aged 16 to 24, but a leading psychiatrist warns official statistics may not tell the whole story.Darlington & Stockton Times · 19 Oct, 07:45
PIP review warning as thousands of young people claim DWP benefits for anxietyPIP figures reveal that 30% of recent claimants with anxiety disorders are aged 16 to 24, but a leading psychiatrist warns official statistics may not tell the whole story.The Northern Echo · 19 Oct, 07:45

In this story: Department for Work and Pensions · England and Wales

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