Caring & Welfare Benefits
Welfare Benefits
Many people find that getting the right benefits in place is one of the most stressful parts of caring. Complicated forms, the need to prove your situation, and knowing exactly what to say and how to say it, can make it a bit overwhelming. Below is a summary of the main benefits that you, or the person you care for, might be entitled to.
This is not all the benefits available, and applying for some might have a knock on effect on others. Always speak to a professional before putting in a claim. Our team is happy to chat to you about your situation and what you may be able to claim.
Adult Disability Payment (PADP)
Adult Disability Payment (formerly Adult Disability Living Allowance/Personal Independence Payment) is for people aged 16-66 who have a disability or other condition that affects their health on a daily basis. The benefit amount is based on the person’s daily living and night time needs.
Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP)
Pension Age Disability Payment (formerly Attendance Allowance) is like ADP, but for people of state pension age. Again, the benefit amount is based on the person’s daily living and night time needs.
Child Disability Payment (CDP)
Child Disability Payments (formerly Child Disability Living Allowance) provides support for the extra costs that a disabled child might have. It can be claimed from birth to 16 years, dependent on the condition. The benefit amount is based on the care needs of the child.
Carer Support Payment (CSP)
Carer Support Payment (formerly Carer’s Allowance) is for Carers aged 16-66 (some exceptions apply) caring for 35 hours per week or more for a person who receives a qualifying benefit. You can claim if you are employed for 16 hours a week or less, and earn under a specified minimum amount.
If you receive Carer Support Payment you will also automatically receive the Scottish Carer Supplement, which replaces the Carer’s Allowance Supplement. If you care for more than one person with a qualifying benefit, you may also be able to claim the Carer Additional Person Payment.
Carer Support Payment can affect other benefits. Contact the Centre before applying.
Additional Benefits
You may also be entitled to the benefits below, however these can impact other benefits and so we recommend you speak to a specialist benefits advisor before making a claim.
Services that can support you include:
Universal Credit (UC)
Universal Credit is open to everyone, and tops up your income. The amount you get depends on your earnings and your living situation. Applications are made online, and if successful it can help you also claim council tax and rent reduction.
Carer Support Payment can affect other benefits. Contact the Centre before applying.
Pension Credit Guarantee (PCG)
If you receive a state pension and are on a low income, Pension Credit Guarantee tops up your income to a minimum level. You must be of state pension age to apply, and your capital and savings will be considered. There are also add-ons that you may be entitled to.
Other Support
If you are successful in claiming certain benefits, you might also be able to apply for a Blue Badge, a National Entitlement Card travel pass, and other reductions or add-ons. Contact us for full details.