DWP monthly payment up to £441 could help your back pain or other conditions

People suffering from back pain and other chronic conditions could pocket as much as £441 from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Arthritis remains the most common condition, with nearly 484,000 pensioners across the UK claiming Attendance Allowance.

Additionally, more than 74,804 individuals aged over 66 are receivingsupport for back pain. Back pain, especially lower back pain, is a widespread issue.

While it usually eases within a few weeks, it can sometimes persist or return, particularly in older age. Around 2.5 million people across the UK endure back pain every day of the year, and many might not be aware that they could qualify for financial help to cover any extra costs caused by the condition.

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The DWP has disclosed that there are now 1.7 million older people receiving additional financial support through Attendance Allowance. These payments, which are not means-tested, are worth either £72.65 or £108.55 per week.

They are designed to help those of State Pension age with daily living expenses, but neither benefit includes a mobility component. Eligibility for Attendance Allowance isn't affected by savings or income and is paid every four weeks.

This means that someone on the lower rate will receive £295.60 each pay period, while those on the higher rate will pocket £441.40, according to the Daily Record.

Across the nation, an estimated 20 million Brits are grappling with arthritis or similar joint-related conditions. If you're living with arthritis, back pain, joint pain, muscle pain, or chronic pain, you could be entitled to support.

Who's eligible?

You should consider applying for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and require assistance or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night - even if you don't currently receive that help.

This might include:

• Help with your personal care - for example getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering and going to the toilet
• Help to stay safe

You should also apply if you have difficulties with personal tasks - for example if they take you a long time, you experience pain or you need physical help, like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance is not just for people with a physical disability or illness.

You should also claim if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have:

• a mental health condition
• learning difficulties
• a sensory condition - if you are deaf or visually impaired

How to make a claim for Attendance Allowance?

When applying for Attendance Allowance, you'll need to complete a comprehensive claim form. It may seem daunting initially, but help is at hand from your local Citizens Advice, so don't let the form put you off applying.

If you'd prefer to do it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to complete your claim form here. Full details of how to obtain the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.UK website here.