How to get financial help

Millions of older people struggle financially, despite £3.5 billion of unclaimed benefits in the UK each year. Many carers and people with long-term health conditions do not realise they can claim Attendance Allowance – a benefit which helps with the extra costs of illness or disability. It can be paid regardless of income, savings or National Insurance contribution record to people over 65. It’s also tax free. Carers can also benefit if the person they care for receives Attendance Allowance as it may entitle the carer to Carer’s Allowance. Attendance Allowance money does not have to be used to pay for care – you can use it however you like to help make life easier for you.

Special rules apply for those who are terminally ill.

There are two rates of Attendance Allowance for 2017/18 – new rates will apply from April. At present the higher rate is £83.10, paid to people who need frequent help with personal care and other help during the day and the night. The lower rate is £55.65 and is paid if someone needs help either during the day or the night.

Personal care needs include help with:

Getting in and out of a chair Bathing and washing Dressing and undressing Help with medication and treatment Getting in and out of bed Communication and eyesight problems Eating and drinking Using the toilet Walking To fill in the Attendance Allowance form, you’ll need to refer to the documents relating to your situation, including: Letters from your GP or consultant Your local council care plan Report from your community nurse Appointment letters Prescription lists

Fill in the form

Filling in Attendance Allowance forms is long and complicated but the extra money may make a real difference to your life. It is often better to ask a professional person to help you fill in the form. To claim Attendance Allowance, call the helpline on 0800 731 0122 or visit www. carersuk.org. Call the Carers UK adviceline on 0808 808 7777 for details of someone in your area who could help you fill in the form