Claims for ADHD disability benefits have surged dramatically under the current Labour government, with over 100,000 individuals now receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reports approving approximately 40 ADHD-related PIP claims each day.
The number of ADHD claimants has risen from 71,258 in July 2024 to 100,207 by April 2026. Notably, 40% of these claimants receive the highest level of daily living and mobility support, valued at £194 per week.
Sir Stephen Timms, who leads the ongoing Timms Review into the PIP system, has highlighted concerns about the rapidly growing welfare expenditure. He commented, “There may well be changes that can be made to enable PIP to better support individuals to enter or remain in employment when faced with health challenges during their working lives.” Recommendations from the review are expected by November this year.
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Lord Michael Gove, former Education Secretary, recently emphasized the need for schools to adopt more stringent ADHD diagnostic criteria. Speaking at a Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) event, Gove warned that the rising diagnoses of behavioural, emotional, and social difficulties—including ADHD—could impact children’s future employment prospects. He remarked, “In many cases, we make allowances rather than providing the necessary support and challenge, particularly concerning ADHD.”
A government spokesperson stated, “We inherited a broken welfare system and are actively implementing reforms. Measures underway are projected to save nearly £2 billion by the end of the decade. The Timms Review, conducted in collaboration with disabled individuals and their representatives, aims to make PIP fit for the future.”
The increase in the overall PIP caseload has slowed under the current administration, decreasing from 400,000 claimants in the 12 months to July 2024, down to 270,000 in the 12 months to April 2026.