Samantha Leathers

Department for Work and Pensions figures show that more than 1.5 million PIP claimants had a psychiatric disorder recorded as their primary disabling condition in April 2026. The article lists 20 conditions in this category, led by mixed anxiety and depressive disorders, autistic spectrum disorders and global learning disabilities. A diagnosis alone does not guarantee eligibility: the condition must affect daily living or mobility and be expected to last at least 12 months. PIP has separate daily-living and mobility components, with weekly payments ranging from £30.30 to £114.60 depending on the claimant’s assessed needs.

Vehicles displaying a valid Blue Badge correctly cannot legally be wheel-clamped for public or on-street parking offences in the UK. The badge must be visible on the dashboard, legible through the windscreen, and displayed with its front and hologram facing upward. Misuse or incorrect display can lead to fines, prosecution, vehicle removal, or withdrawal of the badge. Badge holders must still avoid obstructive or dangerous parking, and Citizens Advice recommends complaining to both the creditor and bailiff if an apparently unlawful clamp is applied.

The Motability Scheme has reduced its standard annual mileage allowance from 20,000 miles to 10,000, with excess mileage now charged at 25p per mile rather than 5p. Motability is providing an additional 3,000 miles to customers in rural and isolated areas who face longer journeys to essential services, with eligibility determined by postcode data and typical travel times. MP Sorcha Eastwood asked whether the criteria could be widened, but Minister Sir Stephen Timms said the independent Motability Foundation and Motability Operations are responsible for administering the scheme. Customers in eligible postcodes will be contacted directly, while other drivers with exceptional healthcare, education or employment-related travel may be able to receive alternative support.

A government-led taskforce involving major financial institutions aims to reunite 750,000 young people with unclaimed Child Trust Fund savings totalling £1.6 billion. The initiative focuses on improving coordination between providers and increasing awareness, supported by direct government outreach to eligible account holders. Bank representatives and Treasury officials emphasise ease of access and the importance of helping young adults claim funds averaging £2,200 each.