Personal Independence Payment
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a new benefit, replacing Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people aged 16 to 64 years. PIP will be introduced in Northern Ireland on the 20 June 2016.
Most PIP claimants will undergo a face-to-face assessment with a Health Professional working on behalf of Capita Health and Wellbeing, the PIP Assessment Provider in Northern Ireland. They may contact you for further information about a claimant. In line with General Medical Council guidelines, contact will only be made where the patient’s consent is held.
There are also Special Rules for claimants who have a terminal illness and are not expected to live for more than six months to ensure they get help quickly. You may be requested to fill in a DS1500 for a terminally ill patient to confirm their medical condition.
We’ve developed resources to help provide an overview of PIP and your role in the process. Further information is available on nidirect and these pages are updated regularly to reflect the latest information about PIP.
- A guide to completing medical reports is also available
If you have any queries or would like further information please email welfarechanges@communities-ni.gov.uk.
Income Support
Income Support is extra money to help people on a low income. It’s for people who don't have to sign on as unemployed. Whether you qualify or not and how much you get depends on your circumstances.
Guidance for Social Workers in Northern Ireland
For more information on Income Support