Young adults comprise one-third of recent anxiety-related PIP claimants

New research reveals that teenagers and young adults represent nearly one in three people who have recently begun claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for anxiety disorders. Analysis of Department for Work & Pensions data shows that of the 24,681 claimants in England and Wales who have received the benefit for up to two years with anxiety as their primary condition, 30% are aged 16 to 24, and 22% are aged 25 to 34. This indicates that over half of recent claimants for anxiety-related PIP have not yet reached their mid-30s.

The findings come as the Labour Government considers major reforms to disability benefits and employment support. Proposed changes include the potential removal of the health element from Universal Credit for disabled or ill individuals under the age of 25, potentially replacing it with an intensive “Return to Work” scheme. Additionally, new claimants may face monthly reductions starting next April. While ministers are reviewing the assessment process for all ages, those with the most severe disabilities are not expected to see a reduction in funding.