Boost for People with Bone Conditions
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that people with certain bone conditions can now claim up to £798 per month through Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This financial support is aimed at helping those who struggle with daily tasks or mobility due to long-term health issues. PIP is a tax-free benefit, and it’s not affected by income, savings, or employment status, making it accessible to many. As of April 2025, PIP rates rose by 1.7% to keep up with rising living costs, offering a lifeline to those in need.
What is PIP and Who Can Claim?
PIP is designed to support people with long-term health conditions or disabilities that make everyday tasks or getting around difficult. It’s split into two parts: a daily living component and a mobility component. Depending on the level of support needed, claimants can receive either a standard or enhanced rate for each part. For 2025/26, the weekly rates are £73.90 or £110.40 for daily living and £29.20 or £77.05 for mobility. If someone qualifies for the highest rates of both, they could get £749.80 every four weeks, or roughly £798 per month.
Three Bone Conditions That Qualify
The DWP has highlighted three specific bone conditions that may qualify for PIP: benign bone tumours, compartment syndrome (Volkmann’s ischaemia), and Sudek’s atrophy. These conditions can severely impact movement and daily life, making tasks like dressing, cooking, or walking challenging. The DWP stresses that eligibility isn’t just about the diagnosis—it’s about how the condition affects you. Over 1.1 million people in the UK currently receive PIP for musculoskeletal issues, including these bone conditions, showing how common these claims are.
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Benign Bone Tumours | Non-cancerous growths that can cause pain or limit movement |
| Compartment Syndrome | Pressure in muscles causing pain and restricted blood flow |
| Sudek’s Atrophy | Pain and swelling, often after injury, affecting bones and tissues |
How to Apply for PIP
To claim PIP, you need to contact the DWP by calling 0800 917 2222 or visiting GOV.UK for an application form. An independent healthcare professional will assess how your condition affects your life, either through a face-to-face meeting, video call, phone call, or paper-based review. The DWP decides the assessment method, and the process typically takes around 15 weeks. If successful, you could receive backdated payments from the date you applied. Even if your condition isn’t listed, you can still apply if it impacts your daily life for at least three months and is expected to last nine months or more.
What’s Next for PIP?
The DWP has faced criticism over proposed changes to PIP, set to start in November 2026, which could affect both new and existing claimants. These plans, including a stricter “four-point rule” for eligibility, were scaled back after backlash, and a review led by Minister Sir Stephen Timms is now underway. For now, those with bone conditions like the ones listed can apply with confidence, knowing support is available. If you think you’re eligible, don’t delay—check GOV.UK for more details and start your claim today.