The Brain Charity

We know that applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can be a daunting process, especially when you’re living with a neurological condition. But don’t worry, The Brain Charity is here to help. 

We’ve created a handy video to help you understand everything PIP! The Brain Charity’s helpful animated guide has been created to support you through every step of the PIP application process.  

In a little over three minutes, this accessible visual and audio resource can make understanding the form and answering questions feel much less overwhelming. 

Watch our video here and then read on for more information about PIP and how The Brain Charity can support you. 

What is PIP and who can apply? 

PIP is a welfare benefit provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to people with long-term conditions, disabilities, or health issues, including neurological conditions like brain injuries, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. To qualify, you must: 

• Be aged 16 or over. 

• Have a condition that affects your daily life or mobility. 

• Expect these difficulties to last for at least 12 months. 

• PIP is designed to help with the extra costs of living with a disability. It is not based on your income, savings, or whether you are working, meaning that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has an equal opportunity to apply. 

How much can you get? 

The weekly amount you receive depends on your score in a points-based assessment. The assessment considers how your condition affects your daily living and mobility. There are two rates for each category: standard and enhanced. The current range is £28.70 to £184.30 per week. More information on this can be found here. 

How to apply 

You can claim PIP by phone, post, or online (in some areas). You must complete a form detailing your condition and its impact on your daily life. 

The Brain Charity’s top tips for applying 

• Gather Evidence: Collect documents like medical reports, prescriptions, and therapist notes to support your claim. 

• Focus on How Your Condition Affects You: Be honest and specific about your daily struggles. 

• Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: The Brain Charity offers downloadable guides and a free Information and Advice service to answer your questions. 

Appealing a PIP decision  

If your PIP application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process can be complex, but The Brain Charity can help you understand the process and gather the evidence you need to support your appeal.  

Here are some things to keep in mind if you are appealing a PIP decision:  

• You have one month to appeal a decision.  

• You can appeal your decision online, by phone, or by post. 

• You will need to provide new evidence to support your appeal. This could include new medical reports, letters from your doctor or therapist, or other documents that show how your condition affects your daily life.  

• The Brain Charity can help you gather the evidence you need to support your appeal.  

If your appeal is successful, you will be awarded PIP at the appropriate rate. If your appeal is denied, you may be able to appeal again.  

Additional key information 

• PIP is tax-free and can be backdated to the date you first applied. 

• Eligibility for PIP isn’t affected by your savings, income, or whether you live with others. 

• If you live in Scotland, you must apply for Adult Disability Payment (ADP) instead of PIP. 

To get help starting your application, contact The Brain Charity today on 0151 298 2999. Alternatively, you can email us at info@thebraincharity.org.uk. Our friendly reception team will direct your call to the correct department, for a more detailed overview of getting help from The Brain Charity head here.