Overview

• New DWP figures cited by the Liverpool Echo show 508,964 people receive Attendance Allowance for arthritis, with overall claimants reported at roughly 1.7 million.
• Payments are £73.90 or £110.40 a week, typically paid every four weeks as about £295.60 or £441.60.
• Eligibility requires State Pension age and a need for help or supervision for at least six months, with faster access to the higher rate for those nearing end of life.
• The support is tax-free and not means-tested, does not cover mobility needs, and can increase other help such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax reduction.
• Coverage varies on qualifying condition categories, with Birmingham Live listing 57 and Chronicle Live presenting 48, while application is via a form obtainable by post or phone with guidance available from Citizens Advice.