What financial support can we get if my mum has dementia?

Finding out that your mum has dementia is challenging, and you might be wondering about the financial support available to help manage this new reality. The good news is that there are various benefits and resources designed to assist families like yours. Here’s a straightforward guide on what financial support you can get.

1. Attendance Allowance

If your mum is over State Pension age and needs help with personal care because of dementia, she might be eligible for Attendance Allowance. This benefit isn’t means-tested, which means her income and savings won’t affect the amount he receives.

• How to apply: request a claim form by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122 or download it from the government website: https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance/how-to-claim

  Fill out the form with details about how dementia affects her daily life.

2. Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

If your mum is under State Pension age, she could qualify for Personal Independence Payment. This payment helps with extra costs if she has a long-term health condition or disability that affects her daily living and mobility.

• How to apply: start the claim by calling the Personal Independence Payment claims helpline on 0800 917 2222. In certain areas you can also apply online: https://www.gov.uk/pip/how-to-claim

3. Carer’s Allowance

If you or another family member is caring for your mum for at least 35 hours a week, you might be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. This benefit provides financial support to carers, even if they don’t live with the person they care for.

• How to apply: apply online here via the government website: https://www.gov.uk/carers-allowance

4. Council Tax reduction

Your mum might be eligible for a discount on her Council Tax bill. This is often called a "severe mental impairment" (SMI) discount.

• How to apply: contact your local council to find out how to apply for this discount. Each council may have a slightly different process, so it’s best to check directly with them.

5. Other benefits

Depending on your mum's situation, she might be eligible for other benefits like:

• Pension Credit: if she’s over State Pension age and on a low income, Pension Credit can top up her weekly income.

• Housing Benefit: if your mum rents her home, she might be eligible for help with housing costs.

• Universal Credit: if she’s under State Pension age and has a low income or no income, she might be eligible for Universal Credit.

Sources: GOV.UK, NHS