Individuals receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) are being encouraged to register for a pioneering scheme that could provide them with hundreds of pounds worth of discounts and free items each month.
Founder's Personal Mission to Cut Living Costs
The initiative, called Purpl, is the first platform of its kind in the United Kingdom. It was founded by Georgina Colman, who was inspired to act after her own diagnosis with multiple sclerosis (MS). In a direct message to PIP claimants, Colman explained the significant financial pressures faced by disabled people.
"After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, I realised how expensive life is as a disabled person," she shared. "I spend money every month on therapies." Her regular outgoings include neuro-physiotherapy, sports massages, chiropractic appointments, and other alternative treatments.
Colman also highlighted additional unavoidable costs, such as higher heating bills because her body struggles in the cold, spending on walking aids and assistive technologies, and purchasing specialist supplements and 'free from' foods.
How the Purpl Platform Works
Purpl is designed specifically as a 'closed group' discount community for people with disabilities. Its primary goal is to secure exclusive savings from brand partners, which are then passed on to verified members.
Eligibility for the platform extends to anyone with a disability or long-term health condition recognised under the Equality Act 2010. This includes both visible and hidden disabilities, as well as physical or mental health conditions that impact daily life. Parents or carers can also join on behalf of someone with a disability, provided they have permission.
The organisers emphasise that a strict verification process is essential. "Verification is essential because it ensures that our members meet the eligibility criteria, which helps us secure the best possible discounts from our brand partners," the website states. Its FAQ adds, "Our process is strict because we don’t want people accessing our disabled discounts and community who do not live with a disability."
Aiming for a More Affordable Daily Life
Georgina Colman expressed her hope for the platform's impact: "I hope that through Purpl, we can help disabled people with their everyday expenses so life is a little easier and more affordable." She also noted her excitement about inviting more brands to join as the community grows, enabling users to save on the products and services they use regularly.
For the estimated millions of people in the UK living with a disability or long-term health condition, platforms like Purpl represent a practical tool to help manage the substantial extra costs associated with daily living, potentially saving members around £700 every month.
