John Hughie
Older adults in Scotland are being encouraged to explore a new benefit—Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP)—designed for those aged 66 and over who are living with a long-term illness or disability.
Managed by Social Security Scotland, this benefit replaces new claims for Attendance Allowance and ensures uninterrupted financial support during the transition. Here’s a complete guide on what PADP means, how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What is the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP)?
The Pension Age Disability Payment is a new disability assistance program launched by Social Security Scotland to support elderly residents who require help with personal care or supervision due to a health condition.
It is only available to people over the State Pension age living in Scotland and replaces Attendance Allowance for all new applicants.
Key Point: Existing recipients of Attendance Allowance will continue receiving payments of up to £441.60 every four weeks from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) until their benefits are transferred to the new system by the end of 2025.
Smooth Transition: No Breaks in Payment
According to Advice Direct Scotland, a trusted national charity, individuals should not be alarmed by the changeover. Payments will remain consistent at £73.90 (lower rate) or £110.40 (higher rate) per week, depending on care needs. Until migration is finalized, all changes in circumstances must still be reported to DWP.
Rebecca Fagan, Welfare Information Officer at Advice Direct Scotland, emphasized that although this is a rebranding, the core support remains unchanged. She reassured pensioners that the financial help vital for their well-being, dignity, and safety will continue without disruption.
Eligibility Criteria for PADP
To qualify for the Pension Age Disability Payment, individuals must meet the following conditions:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Requirement | Must have reached State Pension age (currently 66 years) |
| Care Needs Duration | Must have needed care or supervision for at least 6 months |
| Exceptions | Terminally ill individuals qualify immediately with fast-track approval |
Note: If your care needs have only recently started, your payment will be backdated to six months from the onset of those needs once the claim is approved.
Payment Rates and Processing Time
| Care Needs | Weekly Rate |
|---|---|
| Help needed during the day or night | £73.90 |
| Help needed during both day and night or terminally ill | £110.40 |
Processing Time:
- Standard claims: 6 working days
- Terminal illness claims: 1 working day
New claimants submitting their application this week could receive a decision letter by the beginning of next month. However, complex cases may take longer, and growing awareness could increase processing times.
Current Insights and Application Data
Recent figures from Social Security Scotland indicate that:
- 1,875 pensioners are already receiving PADP
- Of 2,575 processed applications, 77% were approved, 11% denied, and 11% withdrawn
- 79% of successful applicants were awarded the higher rate
Tip: Most applicants are aged 75 and over, so don’t hesitate to apply if you’re within that range.
Health Conditions Covered Under PADP
PADP provides support for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Arthritis, Back Pain, Heart Disease, Parkinson’s Disease
- Dementia, Diabetes, Neurological Disorders
- Visual and Hearing Impairments, Mental Health Conditions
- Cancer, Cystic Fibrosis, Epilepsy
- Frailty, Trauma to Limbs, Respiratory Disorders, and many more
This is not an exhaustive list, but it demonstrates the scope of health conditions supported.
Improvements Under the Scottish System
The Scottish Government has enhanced PADP with user-informed features, such as:
- A simplified process to nominate a third-party representative
- A fast-track option for terminal illness cases
- Access to free advocacy services like VoiceAbility to assist with applications
How to Apply for PADP
You can apply for PADP if:
- The program has launched in your area (check availability at mygov.scot)
- You’re over State Pension age with qualifying care needs
Still receiving Attendance Allowance? You don’t need to do anything—Social Security Scotland will handle your transfer automatically.
Need help?
- Call Advice Direct Scotland: 0808 800 9060 (Mon–Fri, 9 am to 5 pm)
- Visit: www.advice.scot
- Use the benefits calculator to check your entitlement
The Pension Age Disability Payment ensures that Scotland’s elderly population continues to receive vital financial support as they age. With streamlined applications, improved processing, and wide eligibility, PADP represents a significant advancement in social care.
If you’re over 66 and live with a long-term condition or disability, it’s worth checking whether you qualify. Support is available, and the process has been built with your needs in mind.
FAQs
Can I receive both Attendance Allowance and PADP at the same time?
No, you cannot claim both simultaneously. Existing Attendance Allowance recipients will be automatically transferred to PADP.
What if I don’t have a formal diagnosis yet?
You can still apply. If your care needs meet the criteria, you may qualify without a confirmed diagnosis.
How do I get help if I can’t complete the PADP application on my own?
You can get free advocacy support through VoiceAbility or contact Advice Direct Scotland for assistance with claims and eligibility questions.
