DWP £108 weekly payment many do not claim could be given to thousands with back pain

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released new figures showing that more than 1.6 million elderly people are now receiving additional financial aid through Attendance Allowance. The benefit, which is either £72.65 or £108.55 per week, is designed to assist those of State Pension age with daily living costs.

It does not include a mobility component as it is a non-means tested benefit. Arthritis remains the most common condition claimed by almost 461,000 pensioners across Great Britain.

However, there are also 71,020 individuals over the age of 66 claiming support for back pain, figures from February 2024 show. Such pain, particularly lower back pain, is very common.

Yet while it usually improves within a few weeks, it can sometimes last longer or keep recurring. Around 2.5 million people across the UK experience back pain every day of the year and many may not be aware they could be entitled to financial support to help with any extra costs the condition causes.

Attendance Allowance is a benefit designed to assist with additional costs for those who have a physical or mental disability or illness that makes self-care difficult. It's important to note, however, that it does not cover mobility needs.

You can still apply for this allowance even if you don't currently have a carer. Many more people may be entitled to Attendance Allowance but simply do not know enough about it to make a claim. Here is an overview of what you should know about the benefit, including how to start your application, reports the Daily Record.

If you have a disability or illness and require assistance or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night, even if you're not currently receiving that help, you should apply for