Is incontinence a disability?
Under the Equality Act 2010, a condition counts as a disability if it has a substantial (more than minor) and long-term (12 months or more) effect on your normal daily activities. The law looks at how you would be without treatment. Incontinence that has a substantial, long-term effect on daily life can be covered, especially when linked to another condition.
At work
- easy access to a toilet, and toilet breaks when you need them
- somewhere private to change products
- a desk near the toilet, and flexible hours for appointments
Benefits
PIP includes an activity called managing toilet needs or incontinence. You may score points if, on most days, you need an aid, such as pads, or help from another person to manage incontinence.
PIP points self-check
Go through the 12 PIP activities one at a time and see roughly how many points may apply to you.
About 10 minutes. Your answers never leave your device.
If you are over State Pension age, look at Attendance Allowance instead of PIP. It is for people who need help with personal care or supervision.
Free, independent advisers, such as Citizens Advice or a local welfare rights service, can help you check what you can claim and fill in forms.
Sources we used
- GOV.UK, Definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010
- GOV.UK, Personal Independence Payment
- Bladder and Bowel UK
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