The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has come out in support of the elderly, in particular those with heart conditions.
Over 1.5 million people over retirement age receive Attendance Allowance for a range of health conditions, according to DWP figures.
Among these people, more than 110,600 receive specific support for heart conditions. These include angina pectoris, coronary heart disease, arrhythmia and high blood pressure.
The benefit amounts to £72.65 to £108.55 per week, or £290.60 to £434.20 over a four-week period. For those receiving the benefit, this substantial sum is a relief, as it helps them to manage their medical and living expenses.
Payment rates are based on the degree of assistance you will require:
- Lower Rate (£72.65): For those needing frequent aid or continuous supervision during the day, or monitoring at night.
- Higher Rate (£108.55): For individuals requiring help or supervision throughout both day and night, or for those with a terminal illness prognosis of 12 months or less.
Interestingly, Attendance Allowance is not based on personal income or savings. All benefits are paid directly into a bank account chosen by the beneficiary, ensuring a secure and simple payment process.
Eligibility Criteria for DWP Attendance Allowance
To be eligible for the allowance, claimants must meet a number of criteria:
- They should have reached the State Pension age.
- They should have a physical disability (including sensory disabilities like blindness), a mental disability (including learning difficulties), or both. The disability should necessitate help with personal care or supervision for safety.
- They should have required this level of assistance for at least six months (unless they have a terminal illness prognosis of less than 12 months).
- They should be in Great Britain when claiming and have been in Great Britain for at least 2 of the last 3 years (exceptions apply for refugees or those with humanitarian protection status).
- They should be habitually resident in the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man, or the Channel Islands, and should not be subject to immigration control (with specific exceptions).
- They should not already be receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Adult Disability Payment (ADP).
You can make a claim for DWP Attendance Allowance in any of the following ways:
- By post: Print and complete the Attendance Allowance claim form and send it to the Freepost address.
- Helpline: Contact the Helpline to request an application form. This option also provides advice and answers questions about the application procedure.
However, the recipient should be aware that any changes in their situation must be reported promptly, as they may affect the amount of the allowance.
Such changes may include a change in the level of support required, admission to a hospital or care home, diagnosis of a terminal illness, a prolonged stay abroad, imprisonment or a change in personal details or immigration status.
Failure to disclose these changes may have legal consequences, including penalties or legal action.