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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPIP is a benefit for disabled people. Unlike other benefits like Universal Credit, it isn\u2019t means tested and it doesn\u2019t matter if you work or not. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
On average it costs around \u00a31,010\u00a0more every month to be disabled<\/a> and so PIP can be really helpful to people like me. It gives us extra financial support for things like private medications, carers, mobility aids and home adjustments, but the payments don\u2019t go far.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Changes to PIP could seriously impact disabled people. It gives us financial support to be independent and to have more freedom, as well as access to costly yet essential things we need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Accessing PIP is far from straightforward. The application process is lengthy and rigorous. Sense research found that almost half of disabled people (49%) with complex needs on benefits say they could not apply for benefits without help from others.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n There are lots of forms, medical assessments, and evidence to gather. You\u2019re then either given a face-to-face appointment, which isn\u2019t always accessible, or a phone call instead. It can sometimes take over a year for you to get an answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PIP is not a luxury, it’s a necessity that enables disabled people to access the things they need to not only survive, but to thrive. However, the standard PIP rates\u2014\u00a373.90 for daily living and \u00a329.20 for mobility\u2014barely cover any additional costs. \u00a0Even the enhanced rates of \u00a3110.40 for daily living and \u00a377.05 for mobility aren\u2019t enough. Almost half (44%) of disabled people on benefits told us that they regularly go without the support and equipment they need<\/a> as a disabled person because they simply can\u2019t afford it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are some of the ways I use my PIP:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Although not due to take effect until November next year, the recent proposed changes to PIP include things like tightening the eligibility criteria, making it harder for people to qualify. These changes will cut support for 800,000 people<\/a> who claim PIP, putting them at risk of poverty. Disabled people don\u2019t deserve to live in fear. Fear of losing their independence, of losing their access to accessible travel and private medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Changes to PIP will also affect disabled people who are able to work too. Sense polling found that 40% of disabled people with complex needs on PIP said that benefits helped them to access employment.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n PIP is more than just a financial benefit, it’s a lifeline for many disabled people!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get more information about PIP and find out whether you’re eligible. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n The application process isn’t always easy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Living with a disability is expensive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Proposed changes to PIP are scary for disabled people<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Get more information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n