The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released a new update confirming a revised list of health conditions eligible for ‘ongoing’ Personal Independence Payment (PIP) awards in 2025.
In parallel, thousands of UK households are also being supported through the extended Household Support Fund (HSF), offering up to £500 in cost of living vouchers to help cover food, energy bills, and daily essentials.
This comprehensive update highlights how health and financial support are being expanded in 2025 for vulnerable households across the UK.
Whether you’re claiming PIP due to a disability or applying for HSF vouchers to cope with inflation and cost-of-living pressures, staying informed can help you receive the assistance you deserve.
What Are ‘Ongoing’ PIP Awards?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) supports people with long-term physical or mental health conditions or disabilities who struggle with daily living or mobility. There are two types of PIP awards:
- Short-term awards – typically reviewed within 2 years
- Ongoing awards – given to people with severe or deteriorating conditions, usually reviewed only every 10 years via a “light-touch” review
These ongoing awards eliminate the need for frequent reassessments, offering more long-term security to eligible claimants.
Conditions Now Eligible for ‘Ongoing’ PIP Awards in 2025
The DWP has published updates on which condition categories are more likely to be granted ongoing awards, particularly for those undergoing a DLA to PIP reassessment.
| Condition Category | Examples | Likelihood of Ongoing Award |
|---|---|---|
| Neurological Disorders | Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, Brain Injury, Hydrocephalus | High (36% ongoing in DLA reassessment) |
| Musculoskeletal Disorders | Osteoarthritis, Chronic Pain Syndrome, Bone Fractures | Moderate to High |
| Respiratory Illnesses | COPD, Asthma | Moderate |
| Psychiatric Conditions | Depression, Anxiety, Dementia, Substance Abuse | Low (Despite making up 40% of PIP claims) |
Note: Psychiatric disorders are the most common reason for successful PIP claims but have the lowest ongoing award rate due to the perceived potential for condition change.
Reassessment Rules and Age Considerations
- PIP applies to people aged 16 to State Pension age.
- If a person is already receiving PIP at the time they turn 66, they can continue to receive it.
- New PIP applications cannot be made after reaching State Pension age — instead, claimants must apply for Attendance Allowance.
- Reassessments occur every 10 years for ongoing awards or within 2 years for short-term awards.
£500 Household Support Fund Vouchers: What’s New?
Alongside the PIP update, the Household Support Fund (HSF) has been extended until March 2026, with up to £500 in vouchers being distributed by local councils to households in need. These vouchers can be used for:
- Food and groceries
- Utility bills (gas/electricity)
- Essential daily expenses
Example Council Allocations:
| Council | Voucher Amounts Offered | Application Details |
|---|---|---|
| Ribble Valley Borough Council | £200 (single), £300 (2+ adults), £500 (households with children) | Applications reopen August 18, 2025 |
| Nottingham Council | £98 (energy), £75 (supermarket) | Vouchers released monthly; next batch: Sept 1 |
| Warrington Borough Council | Amount not disclosed | Next payments due early August 2025 |
Every local council sets its own rules, deadlines, and eligibility criteria based on the funding received from the DWP.
Key Household Support Fund Details
- Available UK-wide, depending on council
- You do not need to be on benefits to apply
- Vouchers are non-taxable and won’t affect existing benefits
- Income thresholds (e.g., Ribble Valley: under £35,000/year) apply in most areas
- Some councils limit applications to once per household per year
Who Can Apply?
The government’s official guidelines state:
“Funding is aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council.”
Local authorities may distribute funds through:
- Direct voucher schemes
- Community groups or charities
- Crisis support teams
As the cost of living continues to challenge families across the UK, the DWP’s updated PIP eligibility and ongoing support through the Household Support Fund offer crucial financial relief.
Whether you’re managing a long-term disability or facing hardship paying for food or utilities, support is available.
Stay updated with your local council’s announcements and check your eligibility for both ongoing PIP awards and HSF vouchers. These programs are designed to protect the most vulnerable — and you might qualify for more than you think.
FAQs
Can someone receiving PIP also apply for the Household Support Fund?
Yes. The Household Support Fund is separate from PIP, and receiving PIP does not exclude you from applying for HSF vouchers.
Do I need to be on Universal Credit or other benefits to apply for the HSF?
No. Even if you’re not receiving any benefits, you may still be eligible if you’re struggling to afford essentials.
Will an ongoing PIP award be reviewed again?
Yes, but usually only every 10 years, and the process is a light-touch review — far less intense than the initial assessment.
