NI contributions trap for the disabled? Health issues, PIP, part time work but 0 NI contributions

CoconutRick

Due to a health issue, a family member is unable to work more than 10 hours per week.  This low wages causes them to contribute nothing to NI contributions (well under the threshold).

They are in receipt of low rate daily living pip and low rate mobility.  

Citizens Advice have said that no recent full year contributions would be a block to ESA.  Is this true?  Through bad advice, ESA was not sought earlier.  

Are they, through no fault of their own, trapped in a flawed system? (with little to no chance of ever receiving a state pension?)

Voluntary contributions are simply not an affordable option.  As their partner works full time, UC is also not an option.  

Any advice is appreciated.  

Spoonie_Turtle

It is true that they need two recent full years of credits and/or contributions, with a certain amount of those being from employment.  The relevant years are the two full tax years prior to claiming (but I don't have the brainpower to work out which years that means currently).

There is a lower earnings threshold at which they are credited with contributions without having to actually pay them, currently £123/week
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/rates-and-allowances-national-insurance-contributions/rates-and-allowances-national-insurance-contributions#class-1-national-insurance-thresholds

If they're not earning that much then they can put on a claim for ESA, go through the assessment, and if found not fit for work they would be credited Class 1 NI credits without receiving payments.

They can also see about claiming UC which would give them class 3 NI credits, though they would need a work capability assessment the same as for ESA so they don't have to look for more work.  Possible entitlement will depend on their overall financial situation, including if they have a partner, any income or savings they have.
https://benefits-calculator.turn2us.org.uk/
https://www.entitledto.co.uk/