Households across the UK are being urged to check their eligibility for a significant government benefit which provides financial assistance to those affected by severe health conditions. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has published a comprehensive list of 57 medical conditions which may qualify individuals for a monthly payment of up to £441.60, known as the Attendance Allowance. This benefit aims to support people whose conditions are so serious that they require assistance from another person with daily care.
The Attendance Allowance is designed for individuals who are physically or mentally disabled and are of state pension age or older. It is a lifeline for many, offering crucial financial relief for those who need ongoing help due to their disability. Notably, this payment is not means-tested — your income or savings will not affect whether you can receive it. The amount awarded depends on the level of care required, with claimants potentially receiving a higher or lower rate based on their circumstances.
In the current tax year, the benefit has increased once more. The higher rate now stands at £110.40 per week (up from £108.57), while the lower rate has risen to £73.90 per week (previously £72.66). The higher rate typically applies to those who need care or supervision both throughout the day and during the night, or whose prognosis is sadly limited to less than a year, as indicated by a healthcare professional. The lower rate may be awarded if the individual needs frequent help or constant supervision during the day or needs supervision at night only.
The DWP’s criteria span a wide range of health issues, far beyond what many might expect. This inclusivity ensures that people with both visible and less apparent conditions receive support. Some of the conditions listed by the DWP include arthritis, visual disorders, hearing loss, heart disease, dementia, epilepsy, asthma, diabetes, and a variety of cancers. Rare and complex disorders such as multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease, and haemophilia are also covered. The DWP even accounts for chronic pain syndromes, learning difficulties, and severe mental impairments among other eligible health concerns.
It’s also notable that infectious diseases, including those caused by viruses like Covid-19 or bacterial infections such as tuberculosis, can make a claimant eligible. Similarly, a range of metabolic, neurological, blood, kidney, skin, and digestive diseases fall within the scope of the attendance allowance. Temporary and permanent conditions, as well as terminal illnesses where a medical professional has identified a life expectancy of less than 12 months, are included in the eligibility criteria, highlighting the breadth of the scheme.
Applying for the Attendance Allowance can be done relatively easily. Prospective applicants may opt to fill out a paper form, which can be requested from the DWP, or submit their details online. The application form comes with comprehensive guidance notes, helping applicants navigate the process. The completed paper forms should be posted free of charge to Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance — there’s no need for a stamp or postcode.
For those who require accessible formats, the DWP provides forms in braille, large print, and audio CD. The Attendance Allowance helpline (0800 731 0122) operates weekdays from 8am to 6pm, offering assistance and advice for claimants, their families, or carers. Detailed information about this benefit and the application process is available on the government website to help people understand their entitlement and the steps involved.
It is important to note that while Attendance Allowance does not cover mobility needs directly, receiving it may increase eligibility for other support and benefits, such as Pension Credit or Council Tax Reduction, enhancing the overall financial support available. This makes checking eligibility especially pertinent for households facing additional costs due to disability.
With the cost of living continuing to place pressures on many UK households, awareness of available support such as Attendance Allowance is vital. The government’s explicit listing of 57 qualifying health conditions underscores its commitment to supporting some of society’s most vulnerable individuals. Anyone who believes they or someone they care for might be eligible is encouraged to review the criteria and initiate a claim if appropriate.
For those who want further information, the DWP and other advice services, both local and national, offer guidance to help navigate the process and ensure that those entitled to support receive what they’re due. As living costs remain a concern for many, access to benefits such as Attendance Allowance can provide much-needed reassurance and financial stability.