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Young people make up third of recent PIP anxiety claimants

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 12:01 · Archive

Nearly 30 per cent of recent Personal Independence Payment claimants with 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 (PIP) 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 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 per cent of recent claimants. A further 5,445 people, or 22 per cent, were aged 25 to 34, meaning more than half of recent PIP claimants whose primary recorded condition is an anxiety disorder are under 35.

PIP is the main disability benefit for people in England and Wales who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability that affects their daily lives. It is intended to help with additional living costs associated with a person's condition. People can claim PIP from the age of 16, even if they are working, have savings or receive other benefits. As of July 31, 2026, there were 72,195 PIP claimants in total whose primary recorded condition was an anxiety disorder, of whom 21 per cent were aged 16 to 24.

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 recent PIP anxiety claimants
Image: Reading Chronicle

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

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