DWP says common health condition means you're owed £434 a month

The Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) has issued an alert over the need to come forward for Attendance Allowance.

Millions of people in the UK who have a common health condition could be missing out on £434 a month. The Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) has issued an alert over the need to come forward for Attendance Allowance.

The DWP has released new data revealing that nearly 461,000 people across the UK are now receiving Attendance Allowance due to arthritis. Arthritis is the most commonly cited disabling condition for Attendance Allowance claims, accounting for over one-third (35 percent) of the 1.7 million total claims.

Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision because of an illness or disability. At the higher rate, for those who who need help during the day and at night, or who're terminally ill, Attendance Allowance pays £108.55.

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The lower rate, for those who need help during the day or at night, pays £72.65. Symptoms and signs of arthritis include joint pain and tenderness in the joints as well as stiffness in the joints, inflammation in and around the joints and restricted movement in the joints.

Other signs could be warm, red skin on your joints and weakness and muscle wasting, the NHS has said. There’s no cure for arthritis, but there are many treatments that can help manage the condition. The NHS explains: "The best treatment for you will depend on what type of arthritis you have.

"Often, you will need a combination of treatments to help manage arthritis." It adds: "Many people with arthritis want to continue to work for many reasons. For example, for better financial security and higher self-esteem.

"You may find work challenging, but your employer should help you get the training and support you need. Speak to your line manager or HR department about your condition to get the right support. Treatment can also help you return to work after being diagnosed with arthritis."