Publication date: 26.03.2025
My name is Inna Fedorova, I am a lawyer from Sunderland, UK. My main area of expertise is legalization and citizenship. As an experienced lawyer, I provide qualified assistance in applying for social security benefits and residence permits in the UK, guaranteeing efficiency, effectiveness and maximum results at every stage of the process.
Initial Data. A mother who tried to apply for benefits for her daughter with a disability, who has autism, was unaware that she was eligible for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Lawyer’s Actions. A consultation was provided on PIP eligibility criteria, assistance was given in gathering the necessary medical documents, and preparation for the interview was conducted.
Result. The client was approved for the benefit.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in the UK
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a UK government benefit for people aged 16 to state pension age who have long-term health conditions or disabilities and experience difficulties in daily life or mobility.
Key Aspects of PIP
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) varies depending on the individual's needs:
- Daily Living Component – for those who need assistance with daily tasks (e.g., preparing food, personal hygiene, communication).
- Mobility Component – for those who have difficulties with movement.
PIP Payment Rates
The amount of PIP payments depends on the level of need: it can be at a standard rate or an enhanced rate for more significant difficulties.
PIP is not means-tested, meaning it is awarded regardless of income or savings.
How to Apply for PIP
- Submit an application by phone or post.
- Complete a questionnaire describing the difficulties faced.
- Undergo a medical assessment (in-person, by phone, or via video call).
- Receive a decision on the benefit award.
PIP replaced the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) system for adults. Children under 16 continue to receive DLA.
This benefit helps cover additional disability-related costs and provides access to other schemes, such as the Motability Scheme (assistance in obtaining a car, scooter, or wheelchair).
Motability Scheme
The Motability Scheme is a UK program that helps people with disabilities acquire vehicles using their disability benefits.
Key Features of the Motability Scheme
- Provides access to vehicles – cars, scooters, and electric wheelchairs.
- Funded through benefits – for example, using the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
- Covers all costs except fuel – including insurance, maintenance, repairs, road tax, tyre replacement, and roadside assistance.
- Available to people with disabilities, their parents, or guardians.
How the Motability Scheme Works
- Eligibility check – the applicant must be receiving certain benefits (e.g., PIP, DLA, War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement, etc.).
- Choosing a vehicle – the applicant can select a car, scooter, or electric wheelchair from approved providers.
- Signing a lease agreement for 3 years (or 5 years for wheelchairs).
- Using the vehicle – all costs except fuel are included in the scheme.
At the end of the lease, participants can:
- Renew the agreement and get a new vehicle.
- Purchase the vehicle.
- Return the vehicle with no further obligations.
Lawyer Inna Fedorova provides professional consultation and assistance in applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and accessing transport through the Motability Scheme.
By seeking help from an experienced lawyer, you can save time, avoid mistakes, and secure the benefits or allowances you are entitled to.
