The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed a new workplace injury payment of £225 per week starting in 2025, offering financial relief to workers unable to continue their duties due to accidents at work. This scheme aims to provide stability during recovery and prevent injured employees from falling into debt while they are unable to earn.
For thousands of UK workers, this development is being seen as a lifeline in difficult times, particularly as many households are already under pressure from rising rent, bills, and grocery costs.
What Is the £225 Weekly Injury Payment?

The scheme ensures that employees who suffer an accident while performing their work duties can receive £225 each week during their recovery period. This money is meant to cover basic household costs, such as:
- Rent or mortgage payments
- Utility bills
- Food and essential shopping
- Everyday living expenses
The initiative is part of a wider government plan to strengthen worker protections and ensure financial security for those who face sudden loss of income due to a workplace incident.
Who Qualifies for the DWP Injury Compensation?
Eligibility for the new scheme is strict and follows clear rules to ensure the payment reaches those genuinely in need. To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- The injury must have occurred at work while carrying out official duties.
- The claimant must be employed or recently employed in a role covered by workplace insurance or national compensation schemes.
- The injury must temporarily or permanently prevent the employee from working.
- Medical evidence from a GP or hospital must be provided.
It is important to note that injuries that are self-inflicted or unrelated to workplace duties will not qualify.
How to Apply for Workplace Injury Pay
The DWP has laid out a clear step-by-step process for applying:
- Report the injury to your employer immediately and ensure it is recorded.
- Collect medical evidence from your GP or hospital, outlining the nature of the injury and how it affects your ability to work.
- Submit a claim to the DWP through its official online portal or via post.
- Provide supporting documentation, including proof of employment, injury details, and bank account information.
- Await DWP’s assessment, where officials will review medical and employment records.
Once approved, payments are typically deposited directly into the claimant’s bank account.
How Long Will Payments Continue?
The duration of the weekly £225 depends on the severity of the injury:
- Short-term injuries: Payments stop once medical clearance allows a return to work.
- Long-term or permanent injuries: Payments may continue until retirement age or until the claimant transitions to another benefit, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Claimants must inform the DWP of any changes to their health or work status to avoid overpayments or disqualification.
Additional Support Beyond the £225
Apart from weekly compensation, injured workers may also be entitled to:
- Free or subsidised medical treatment under NHS or workplace insurance.
- Rehabilitation services, such as physiotherapy or occupational therapy.
- Access to income protection schemes or top-ups, especially for workers unable to return to full-time employment.
These additional benefits can speed up recovery and reduce the long-term financial impact of workplace accidents.
Expert Advice for Claimants
Legal and financial experts recommend the following steps for those applying:
- Keep detailed records of the accident, including times, dates, and witness statements.
- Retain medical evidence and copies of GP or hospital letters.
- Seek legal advice if your claim is rejected or delayed.
- Explore additional benefits such as Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Universal Credit, or PIP, which may provide further financial relief.
Being proactive can prevent unnecessary delays and ensure smoother claims processing.
Why This Scheme Matters for UK Workers
The introduction of the £225 weekly workplace injury pay is a strong statement of government intent: protecting vulnerable workers and ensuring no one is left without income after an accident.
For low-income workers in particular, this initiative may prevent rent arrears, unpaid bills, and mounting debt. It also highlights the importance of workplace safety and accountability. Employers, too, are being reminded of their role in maintaining a safe environment, as the government steps in to protect employees financially.
FAQs About the £225 Workplace Injury Payment
Q1: Is the £225 weekly payment a new benefit?
Yes. It is a new scheme starting in 2025 for workers who suffer injuries at work and are unable to perform their duties.
Q2: Do I need to apply, or will payments be automatic?
You must apply through the DWP with medical and employment evidence. Payments are not automatic.
Q3: Can self-employed workers claim this payment?
Generally, this scheme is for employed workers covered by workplace insurance, not self-employed individuals.
Q4: How long will payments last?
Payments last until you recover and return to work, or in long-term cases, until retirement age or transition to another benefit.
Q5: Will the payment affect other benefits?
No, the £225 weekly compensation is designed to work alongside existing benefits, though you may need to declare it depending on your circumstances.