It is common for families over the Christmas period to realise that older relatives may not be managing on their own and maybe in need of a helping hand.
Many of those we speak to are unaware that they can claim an allowance which is not means tested. At £68.10 a week for the lower amount and £101.75 for the higher, this benefit can be essential in paying for the help they may need.
Attendance Allowance is a vitally important benefit for older people who require help because of their physical or mental condition as entitlement is not subject to the financial means testing which so often applies to other benefits.
Equally, there is no requirement that the applicant is actually attended and the benefit does not have to be spent on care or attendance and can be used for any purpose. All that matters is that a need for help with personal care or supervision exists. The main consideration is that the underlying need is not temporary, such as during a period of convalescence and that the “disability” must have existed for 6 months, except where a prognosis is terminal.
Contact the Attendance Allowance department on 0800 731 0122.