Scottish Pension Boost: Older Scots Could Be Owed Up to £110 a Week in Disability Support
Thousands of older Scots living with long-term health issues may now be eligible for up to £110.40 per week through a new disability benefit exclusive to Scotland, but many may not yet know they qualify.
The Scottish Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) has officially replaced new claims for Attendance Allowance across the country, offering vital financial support for those over 66 needing help due to disability, illness, or terminal conditions.
Unlike Attendance Allowance, which remains in place across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, PADP is run entirely by Social Security Scotland. Importantly, it’s only available to pensioners living within a Scottish postcode.
While the support remains the same, this is a significant shift in how older people in Scotland access disability benefits. And with new figures showing over 1,800 people are already receiving PADP, demand is growing fast.
“This is essentially a rebranding of an existing benefit, in this case, Attendance Allowance. While the name and handling are changing, the support remains the same,” said Rebecca Fagan, benefit and welfare information officer at Advice Direct Scotland.
“We understand that these changes can cause concern for some people who fear they may lose out. It’s crucial that older people who are disabled, terminally ill, or have care needs continue to receive the financial support necessary to maintain their well-being, safety, and dignity.”
For most people, payments remain unchanged, either £73.90 or £110.40 per week, depending on the level of care required. Transfers from Attendance Allowance to PADP will be automatic, with no break in payment expected.
Claimants should still report any change in circumstances to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) until their benefit has migrated to the Scottish system.
The shift reflects a broader effort by the Scottish Government to devolve and improve the delivery of welfare benefits. It follows recent moves such as the re-establishment of a UK pensions commission, which you can read more about in our related report on pension reform developments.
PADP aims to be simpler and more responsive, including faster processing times. Current data suggests an average decision time of just six working days for most applications, and only one day for those applying under the fast-track terminal illness route.
“The Pension Age Disability Payment will be a vital source of assistance for those with long-term health conditions,” added Fagan.
“With the rising cost of living and increasing bills, it’s more important than ever that older people access all available financial aid.”
PADP supports a wide range of chronic health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, dementia, visual impairments, respiratory conditions, Parkinson’s disease, and even long COVID.
If you’re over State Pension age and need help with personal care or supervision—either during the day, night, or both—you may be eligible. And you don’t need to have had a formal diagnosis; the application can be based on your care needs.
People with terminal illness are prioritised with a fast-tracked process. The Scottish Government also offers extra help through the VoiceAbility advocacy service, providing support with applications free of charge.
How to Apply?
Applications for PADP can only be made if the benefit has been launched in your area. Visit mygov.scot to check eligibility and start your application. For those needing assistance, Advice Direct Scotland provides free, confidential guidance at 0808 800 9060 or through www.advice.scot.
An online benefits calculator is also available to help residents ensure they aren’t missing out on other support.
This move is seen as a step forward in Scotland’s ambition to build a more compassionate and user-friendly social security system.
With most successful applicants awarded the higher £110.40 weekly rate, it’s worth checking now whether you or a loved one could benefit from the Scottish pension changes.
