People living with certain stomach and intestinal conditions may be eligible for financial support through Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed a list of 25 digestive health conditions that are commonly associated with successful PIP claims.
According to the latest DWP figures, there are currently 40,458 people receiving PIP for one of these conditions. However, eligibility is not based solely on having a diagnosis. Instead, the DWP assesses how a condition affects a person’s ability to carry out everyday activities and move around independently.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit designed to help people with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability.
Following the annual benefits increase in April, PIP payments rose by 3.8%. Depending on the level of support awarded, eligible claimants can receive up to approximately £748 per month.
The amount a person receives depends on which components they qualify for and whether they receive the standard or enhanced rate.
PIP Rates
PIP is made up of two separate components.
| Component | Standard Rate | Enhanced Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £76.55 per week | £114.80 per week |
| Mobility | £30.20 per week | £80.10 per week |
People awarded the enhanced daily living component along with mobility support could receive up to around £187 per week, which is approximately £748 per month.
Eligibility
The DWP has made it clear that receiving PIP depends on how a health condition affects daily life rather than the diagnosis itself.
During the assessment process, decision-makers consider whether a person has difficulty with activities such as:
- Preparing food
- Eating and drinking
- Washing and bathing
- Dressing
- Managing medication or treatment
- Communicating
- Moving around
- Planning and following journeys
Even if a condition is included on the DWP list, an award is not guaranteed. Each claim is assessed individually.
Conditions
The DWP has identified the following stomach and intestinal conditions among successful PIP claims.
| Condition | Current PIP Claims |
|---|---|
| Hiatus hernia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), reflux oesophagitis | 1,537 |
| Oesophageal varices | 58 |
| Other oesophagus, stomach and duodenum diseases | 2,354 |
| Peptic ulcer (gastric and duodenal), gastritis | 514 |
| Coeliac disease | 618 |
| Other small bowel diseases | 1,925 |
| Crohn’s disease | 12,346 |
| Ulcerative colitis | 5,897 |
| Other colon diseases | 641 |
| Constipation | 173 |
| Diverticular disease or diverticulitis | 2,845 |
| Anorectal abscess | 90 |
| Fistula in anus | 370 |
| Haemorrhoids | 118 |
| Rectal prolapse | 262 |
| Other rectum or anus diseases | 438 |
| Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) | 3,288 |
| Benign gastrointestinal tract tumours | 114 |
| Hernia | 2,123 |
| Cleft lip | 8 |
| Cleft lip with cleft palate | 117 |
| Hirschsprung disease | 99 |
| Tracheo-oesophageal fistula or atresia | 112 |
| Colostomy, ileostomy or stoma without underlying diagnosis | 1,574 |
| Other gastrointestinal tract diseases | 2,844 |
| Total Successful Claims | 40,458 |
Assessment
Although the list includes 25 conditions, the DWP says it is not exhaustive.
People with other digestive or gastrointestinal conditions may also qualify if their symptoms significantly affect their daily living or mobility.
The assessment considers the practical impact of a condition over time rather than the medical diagnosis alone.
Common Conditions
Among the listed conditions, Crohn’s disease accounts for the highest number of successful claims, with more than 12,000 recipients.
Other conditions with a significant number of claims include:
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Diverticular disease
- Hernia
- Gastrointestinal disorders not otherwise specified
These figures reflect the number of current claimants rather than the likelihood of a successful application.
Applying for PIP
People who believe their health condition affects their ability to carry out everyday tasks or move around may be able to apply for PIP.
The application process generally includes:
- Completing a PIP claim form.
- Providing medical evidence where available.
- Attending an assessment if required.
- Receiving a decision from the DWP.
Supporting evidence from healthcare professionals can help explain how a condition affects daily life, although eligibility is determined using the PIP assessment criteria.
The DWP’s latest figures show that thousands of people receive PIP because of stomach and intestinal conditions. However, the benefit is awarded based on the impact a condition has on everyday activities rather than the diagnosis itself. Anyone experiencing significant difficulties because of a long-term digestive condition may wish to check the current eligibility rules and consider whether they meet the assessment criteria.
FAQs
What is the maximum monthly PIP payment?
Around £748 per month, depending on eligibility.
Does a diagnosis guarantee PIP?
No. Awards depend on how the condition affects daily life.
Can people with IBS claim PIP?
They may qualify if symptoms meet the assessment criteria.
How many stomach conditions are listed?
The DWP currently lists 25 digestive conditions.
