By Kieran Isgin,Linda Howard

Copyright manchestereveningnews

People living with back pain and other chronic pain conditions could receive as much as £441 from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Arthritis continues to be the most prevalent condition claimed by nearly 484,000 pensioners on Attendance Allowance across the UK. Additionally, there are also 74,804 people over 66 claiming support for back pain. Back pain – particularly lower back pain – is a common ailment and, while it typically improves within a few weeks, it can occasionally persist or recur, especially as we age. Approximately 2.5 million people across the UK suffer from back pain every day of the year, and many may not realise they could be eligible for financial assistance to cover any additional costs caused by the condition. The DWP reveal that there are now 1.7 million older individuals receiving extra financial aid through Attendance Allowance. Payments are not means-tested and are worth either £72.65 or £108.55 per week. They are intended to assist people of State Pension age with daily living expenses, but neither benefit includes a mobility component. Eligibility for Attendance Allowance is not influenced by savings or income and is paid every four weeks. This means that someone on the lower rate will receive £295.60 each pay period, while those on the higher rate will receive £441.40, reports the Daily Record . Across the UK, it’s estimated that 20 million people suffer from arthritis or similar conditions affecting the joints. If you’re living with arthritis, back pain, joint pain, muscle pain, or chronic pain, you could be eligible for support. You should apply for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and need help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night -even if you don’t currently get that help. This might include: You should also apply if you have difficulties with personal tasks, for example if they take you a long time, you experience pain or you need physical help, like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance are not just for people with a physical disability or illness. You should also claim if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have: You’ll need to fill out a lengthy claim form when applying for Attendance Allowance. It may seem intimidating at first, but assistance is available from your local Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form deter you from applying. If you’d prefer to do it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to complete your claim form here. Full details of how to obtain the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.UK website here .