New research from the Nuffield Trust reveals that Personal Independence Payment (Pip) claims for ADHD and autism among young people have experienced the most rapid growth in some of England’s most prosperous regions, including Wokingham, Warwick, and parts of Hampshire and Surrey. This represents a departure from typical patterns seen with other disability claims, which are usually highest in areas facing economic disadvantage.
While Pip claims for these conditions remain proportionally higher overall in deprived areas, the growth trajectory has shifted dramatically. Surrey Heath experienced a 630% increase in autism and ADHD-related Pip claims since 2019, whereas economically struggling towns such as Mansfield and Great Yarmouth saw increases of 30% and 50% respectively. Researchers attribute this trend primarily to differential access to diagnostic services, with wealthier families able to bypass lengthy NHS waiting lists through private clinical assessments.
The data also indicates disparities along racial lines, with white populations claiming Pip for these conditions at higher rates than other ethnic groups. Ethnically diverse areas such as Newham, Brent, and Leicester showed lower-than-expected claim numbers. Notably, this geographic and demographic pattern appears unique to ADHD and autism, with no similar trends observed in learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, or physical conditions.
According to the Nuffield Trust, obtaining a clinical diagnosis significantly improves chances of a successful Pip claim. Sally Gainsbury, a senior policy analyst at the organization, noted that the findings reflect “substantial inequality in access” to diagnostic services, with those possessing greater resources and support able to navigate both medical and benefits systems more effectively. The research comes as disability benefits spending for working-age individuals faces increased scrutiny, with costs projected to rise from £14bn in 2019 to £34bn in 2030.
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