Many people with a disability and carers may be able to claim for additional financial support to help them with everyday life expenses. To find out more about what you may be able to apply for, start by looking at the government’s disability benefits and financial help pages.
There are also a number of places you can find further advice and information, including:
- Contact a Family – has lots of useful information about claiming benefits and tax credits
- Disability Rights – has information about benefit and pension rates for different situations
- Scope – has information about the types of benefits available
- the Citizens Advice Bureau offer free, confidential and independent advice online and at local offices
- Age UK – has information and benefits calculator for 50+
- the government’s Benefits Adviser site helps you work out what benefits and tax credits you could get, and gives information on how to claim them
Mencap website also has a number of easy read guides on cost of living concerns and benefits.
Many people with a learning disability and their families may be entitled to benefits to help support them with everyday life expenses. There are a wide variety of benefits available.
Knowing what people are entitled to can be very confusing. Mencap have put together a set of frequently asked questions for the different types of benefits that you, or the person you care for, are entitled to.
For people with a sensory impairment
Find out more about how the Devon Sensory Disability Service can offer more specialist support and guidance. You can also register for a disability registration card to receive further benefits.
Visit the government website GOV.UK for information on benefits you may be entitled to:
- benefits and financial support if you’re looking for work
- benefits and financial support if you’re temporarily unable to work
- benefits and financial support for families
- benefits and financial support if you’re disabled or have a health condition
- benefits and financial support if you’re caring for someone
- benefits and financial support if you’re on a low income
- benefits and financial support when someone dies
You can also manage an existing benefit or claim.
If you want some independent advice on benefits you can contact Citizens Advice Devon. Their website has a wealth of information and advice on benefits and you can use their benefit calculator tool. Alternatively you can ring their Advice Line: 0808 278 7820.
Housing Benefits
Housing Benefit – depending on your circumstances you may be entitled to housing benefit and a reduction of Council Tax.
Carers’ benefits
As a carer you may be entitled to some benefits and allowances.
You can use an online benefits calculator to find out what benefits you may be entitled to and how to claim for them. You’ll need information about your income, outgoings, savings and any benefits you currently receive. You can also check that the person you are caring for is receiving everything they are entitled to.
Carer’s Allowance
This is a benefit for anyone aged 16 or over who spends at least 35 hours each week caring for someone. Find out more and apply online at www.gov.uk/carers-allowance/overview
Council Tax Relief
If you are liable for council tax and are on a low income you can apply for Council Tax Relief. You will need to do this through your local city or district council.
You can find more information about the range of benefits available, help with health costs and help with finances from Carers UK.