Home / Business and Economy / 170,000 Young Brits Rely on State Aid
170,000 Young Brits Rely on State Aid
25 Oct
Summary
- Over 170,000 young adults claim disability benefits continuously since childhood.
- Autism, learning disabilities, and ADHD are most common conditions cited.
- Taxpayers bear a significant cost, estimated at £3,000 per minute.
A significant number of young adults in England and Wales, exceeding 170,000, are currently receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for non-physical conditions. These individuals, aged 20 to 29, have been on state benefits since their teenage years, having transitioned from child disability allowances. Autism is the most prevalent condition, followed by learning disabilities and ADHD.
This trend has raised concerns among critics about its long-term economic impact and the potential for a "generation of dependents." The cost to taxpayers is substantial, estimated at £3,000 per minute. The number of children claiming Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for behavioural disorders has quadrupled since 2020, with even very young children now receiving benefits for conditions like ADHD.
