According to recent Scottish Government data, approximately 850,000 residents in Scotland are living with some level of hearing loss, with nearly 70% of them aged over 70—equating to around 595,000 people.
Across Great Britain, an estimated 12 million adults experience hearing impairment or deafness.
However, fewer than 50,000 currently receive financial assistance through Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Attendance Allowance, or the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP).
What is PADP and Who Administers It?
The Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) is a devolved benefit replacing new claims for Attendance Allowance in Scotland.
Administered by Social Security Scotland, this payment supports older adults with health conditions like hearing loss. It is no longer overseen by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in Scotland.
Current Support Rates for Hearing Conditions
More than 9,500 people over State Pension age receive weekly support due to hearing impairments. The weekly benefit rates are:
| Payment Rate | Weekly Amount | 4-Week Total |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £296.60 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 |
These payments are made every four weeks and are designed to help cover daily living expenses, not mobility needs.
Eligibility Based on Age and Location
- Under State Pension Age (66): Consider applying for PIP or ADP.
- Aged 66 or Over: Eligible for Attendance Allowance (England, Wales) or PADP (Scotland).
Currently, Attendance Allowance supports around 1.7 million individuals across Great Britain, including 150,000 in Scotland.
Hearing Conditions Covered
A total of 15 primary hearing-related conditions are supported under PIP, ADP, and PADP/Attendance Allowance. Conditions include but are not limited to:
- Conductive hearing loss (various causes)
- Chronic otitis media (secretory/suppurative)
- Sensorineural hearing loss
- Otosclerosis
- Meniere’s disease
- Presbyacusis
- Deafness – congenital
- Mixed hearing loss
- Other diseases affecting hearing/balance
If your specific condition isn’t listed, you may still qualify—many fall under general or unknown categories.
PADP and Attendance Allowance: Purpose and Benefits
Both PADP and Attendance Allowance are designed to support daily care needs for those with physical, sensory, or mental health conditions. These benefits:
- Do not include a mobility component.
- Can be claimed without a carer being present.
- Are not means-tested, meaning your income and savings don’t affect your eligibility.
- Are tax-free and do not impact your State Pension.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if you:
- Need assistance with personal care, such as dressing, bathing, or eating.
- Require supervision for safety or due to a sensory, mental, or physical condition.
- Experience difficulty completing tasks due to pain, time consumption, or mobility issues.
How Much Can You Receive?
Depending on your needs, you could get:
| Care Level | Weekly Payment | Monthly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Care Needs | £73.90 | £296.60 |
| Higher Care Needs | £110.40 | £441.60 |
This financial support may be used for:
- Transportation (taxis)
- Household bills
- Paying for a cleaner or home help
Does Your Income or Other Benefits Matter?
No. Both PADP and Attendance Allowance are not means-tested, and:
- Do not reduce your State Pension
- Will not affect other benefit entitlements negatively
- May increase eligibility for Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance or PADP
Attendance Allowance (England, Wales, Abroad)
- Apply through DWP.
- Requires completing a detailed claim form.
- Support is available from Citizens Advice for form completion.
PADP (Scotland)
- Apply via Social Security Scotland.
- Full guidance available online for submitting applications.
Note: If you’re nearing State Pension age, apply for PIP or ADP before reaching the threshold, as these offer mobility components which PADP/Attendance Allowance do not.
Who Cannot Apply for Attendance Allowance?
- Individuals with a Scottish postcode must apply for PADP, not Attendance Allowance.
- If you’re already receiving PIP or DLA for care, you are not eligible for Attendance Allowance unless your current award ends.
For the millions of individuals living with hearing loss across the UK, understanding the right disability benefit to apply for—be it PIP, ADP, PADP, or Attendance Allowance—can ensure crucial financial support is accessed.
With options tailored by age, location, and condition, these benefits aim to promote independence, cover essential daily living costs, and reduce economic strain on those most in need.
Don’t hesitate to explore your options, as this support can make a meaningful difference in your quality of life.
FAQs
1. Can I claim PADP or Attendance Allowance if I already get PIP or DLA?
No, if you’re receiving PIP or DLA for care, you’re not eligible for PADP or Attendance Allowance unless your current benefit ends or is denied upon renewal.
2. Will PADP or Attendance Allowance impact my savings or income?
No, both benefits are not means-tested, meaning your savings, earnings, or pension do not affect your eligibility or payment amount.
3. What if my hearing condition isn’t listed?
You can still apply, as many conditions fall under ‘other’ or ‘unknown’ categories. Each application is assessed based on individual care needs, not just diagnosis.