In a major relief for people living with asthma and chronic respiratory illnesses, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that eligible individuals may receive up to £749 per month in financial support through Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (ADP).
With over 5.4 million asthma sufferers in the UK and thousands more affected by other lung conditions, this support could be a financial lifeline for many.
If you or someone you know suffers from breathing difficulties, now is the time to learn more about this benefit, including eligibility, payment rates, and how to apply.
Who Can Qualify for the DWP £749 Monthly Support?
To qualify for PIP or ADP, individuals must suffer from a respiratory condition that significantly affects daily living or mobility for at least three months and is expected to continue for at least nine months.
Eligible Conditions Include:
| Category | Examples of Conditions |
|---|---|
| Upper Respiratory Diseases | Obstructive sleep apnoea, unspecified upper respiratory diseases |
| Chronic Lung Disease | COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema |
| Pulmonary Fibrosis | Extrinsic allergic alveolitis, fibrosing alveolitis |
| Pneumoconiosis | Asbestosis, coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, silicosis |
| Pleural Disease | Pleural effusion, pneumothorax, empyema |
| Granulomatous Lung Disease | Sarcoidosis, other unspecified pulmonary infiltration |
| Other Respiratory Illnesses | Asthma, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, pulmonary embolus, lung transplantation |
Over 138,000 people in the UK are already receiving PIP for respiratory conditions, including 68,000 asthma patients in Scotland who may be transitioned to ADP this summer.
How Much Financial Support Can You Get?
PIP and ADP consist of two components:
- Daily Living Component
- Mobility Component
Each component has standard and enhanced rates, depending on how much your condition impacts your ability to manage day-to-day tasks and mobility.
PIP & ADP Weekly Payment Rates (As of April 2025):
| Component | Standard Rate | Enhanced Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £73.90 | £110.40 |
| Mobility | £29.20 | £77.05 |
If a person qualifies for both components at the enhanced rate, their total weekly support could be £187.45, which equals £749.80 per month (as payments are made every four weeks).
How Are You Assessed for PIP or ADP?
Eligibility is based not just on the diagnosis but how much the condition affects your life. Assessments are function-based, focusing on:
- Daily activities like dressing, eating, washing, managing medications
- Mobility such as walking, using public transport, and moving around
Basic PIP/ADP Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be aged 16 or over
- Have difficulties with daily tasks or mobility
- Issues must have lasted 3 months and be expected to continue for at least 9 months
- Must have lived in the UK for at least 2 of the last 3 years
A health professional will evaluate your abilities and limitations through a questionnaire and possibly an in-person or phone assessment.
This evaluation, along with medical records and other documentation, helps the DWP or Social Security Scotland determine the payment level.
How to Apply for PIP or ADP
Applying is simple if you follow the correct steps:
For PIP (England, Wales, Northern Ireland):
- Call the DWP at 0800 917 2222 to start your application
- Provide your National Insurance number, bank details, GP contact info, and recent medical history
- You’ll receive a form to complete and may be asked to attend an assessment
For ADP (Scotland):
- Apply online at mygov.scot
- Or call Social Security Scotland at 0800 182 2222
- Applications can also be made via post or in person
Financial Impact: Why This Matters
With the cost of living rising and health-related expenses growing, this DWP support can help cover:
- Medication
- Mobility aids
- Transport to medical appointments
- Assistance at home
For those with severe asthma or chronic lung disease, this boost could mean the difference between just coping and living with dignity and independence.
The DWP’s £749 monthly support for those with asthma and breathing conditions is a critical benefit designed to ease financial pressure for those with severe health issues.
If you or a loved one suffers from a respiratory condition that limits daily functioning or mobility, you could be eligible for this vital aid through PIP or ADP.
Understanding your eligibility and acting on it promptly could secure life-changing support that makes everyday living more manageable.
Don’t overlook your spare change—check your eligibility today and apply with the required documents to receive the benefits you may be entitled to.
FAQs
Can I get PIP for asthma or COPD?
Yes, if the condition significantly affects your daily living or mobility, you may qualify for PIP or ADP payments.
How much can I receive each month?
Depending on your assessment, you could receive up to £749.80 per month, combining daily living and mobility components.
How do I apply for PIP or ADP?
You can apply by calling the DWP or Social Security Scotland, or by visiting the official GOV.UK or MyGov websites to start your claim.