Older Brits who receive a state pension and suffer from persistent health complaints may be eligible for additional financial support under the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) scheme.
The attendance allowance is paid at two different rates – £61.85 or £92.40 per week – depending on the level of care required as a result of their ailment.
This amounts to £247.40 per month or £2968.80 per year at the lower rate and £369.90 per month or £4435.20 per year at the higher rate.
According to the government, a lower rate is awarded if you require “frequent assistance or constant supervision during the day or supervision at night.”
A higher amount is given to those who need “assistance or supervision both day and night, or a health worker who has told you that you have six months or less to live.”
British citizens of national pension age with a range of physical or mental disabilities, including common complaints such as arthritis, dementia, heart disease and angina pectoris, are eligible to complete an application form and state their case.
You can find information about rights here and more information on how to apply here.
If you already have a caregiver and need substantial support, they may be eligible for a caregiver’s allowance, which you can learn more about here.
People under retirement age who require additional financial support as a result of a physical or mental disability may be eligible for personal independence benefits (PIP) from DWP, which you can learn more about here.
For more information about attendance allowance and application assistance, please visit the Citizens Advice website.
