Finding the right benefits
The welfare benefits system is complicated and the regulations change frequently, so most families need expert help and advice if they are to receive their full entitlements.
As well as mental health organisations, Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) should be able to help you with benefits enquiries and applications - some of the application forms are very long and it takes time and patience to fill them in. Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) staff who check these forms often have little experience of mental health problems so it is important for each answer to be given carefully and sufficient detail.
There are several benefits available for people who are unable to work some or all of the time. An outline of available benefits, and who is entitled to what, can be found within the benefits pages of the Money and benefits section.
There are several benefits available for people who are unable to work some or all of the time. An outline of available benefits, and who is entitled to what, can be found within the benefits pages of the Money and benefits section.
Benefits for Carers
If you provide 'regular and substantial care' for at least 35 hours a week for a disabled person then you may qualify for Carers Allowance.
You need to be over 16, and the person that you care for must be receiving attendance allowance or the middle or higher rate of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) care component. Carers must also not earn more than £82 per week or be in full time education.
'Regular and substantial care' can include the time it takes you to prepare for the disabled person coming to stay with you, and the time it takes to clear up after. You can only count the time involved to care for one disabled person, and only one carer can be paid for each disabled person's care. See Benefits for more information.
You need to be over 16, and the person that you care for must be receiving attendance allowance or the middle or higher rate of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) care component. Carers must also not earn more than £82 per week or be in full time education.
'Regular and substantial care' can include the time it takes you to prepare for the disabled person coming to stay with you, and the time it takes to clear up after. You can only count the time involved to care for one disabled person, and only one carer can be paid for each disabled person's care. See Benefits for more information.
