Understanding Disability in Preston: Benefits, What You Can Claim, and How to Qualify

Navigating disability benefits in the UK can be confusing, especially when you’re already managing care, health needs, or mobility challenges. At Caremark Preston, we recognise the importance of financial support. It helps maintain independence, access quality care, and reduce the stress of daily life. Whether you live with a disability yourself or care for someone who does, this guide to understanding disability in Preston will explain the benefits available, who may be eligible, and how they can make a difference in daily life.

Attendance Allowance

One of the most common sources of support for people over State Pension age is Attendance Allowance. This benefit is available to individuals who need help with personal care due to a physical or mental disability. You may qualify if you’re aged 66 or over and have needed assistance for at least six months with tasks such as dressing, washing, or supervision to stay safe. If you’re terminally ill, you can claim immediately without the six-month wait. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your income or savings won’t affect your eligibility. There are two rates: £73.90 per week if you need help either during the day or at night, and £110.40 per week if you need support both day and night or if you’re terminally ill. You can learn more and apply through the official GOV.UK Attendance Allowance page.

Personal Independence Payment

If you’re aged 16 to State Pension age and living with a long-term illness, physical disability, or mental health condition, you may be eligible for Personal Independence Payment, or PIP. This benefit is designed to help with extra costs of daily living and mobility. Eligibility is based on how your condition affects your everyday life, not the condition itself. You must have experienced symptoms for three months and expect them to continue for at least nine more.

Most applicants undergo a medical assessment to determine eligibility. PIP includes two components: a daily living component and a mobility component. Each has a standard and enhanced rate. For example, if you need support with dressing, preparing meals, or moving around, you may be entitled to weekly payments ranging from £73.90 to £110.40 for daily living needs, and £29.20 to £77.05 for mobility issues. More information can be found on the GOV.UK PIP page.

Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

For children under 16 with disabilities, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is still available. DLA helps cover the additional costs of care and mobility support for young people who need more help than other children of the same age. The child must have had the condition for at least three months and be expected to continue needing help for at least six more. There are two parts to DLA: the care component and the mobility component. The care component can range from £28.70 to £110.40 per week, while the mobility component ranges from £29.20 to £77.05 per week, depending on how much help the child needs. You can find application details and eligibility on the GOV.UK DLA for children page. When it comes to understanding disability in Preston, knowing which benefits are available for children is a vital first step in getting the proper support early on.

Carer’s Allowance

Unpaid carers can also receive financial support through Carer’s Allowance, which is available to individuals who provide at least 35 hours of care a week for someone receiving a qualifying disability benefit. To be eligible, you must be 16 or older and not earn more than £151 per week after deductions. The person you care for must be receiving a qualifying benefit. These include Attendance Allowance, the daily living component of PIP, or the middle or highest rate of the care component of DLA. The weekly amount for Carer’s Allowance is currently £81.90. While the amount may not seem large, it can make a significant difference. Furthermore, it may also increase entitlement to other benefits. You can apply through the GOV.UK Carer’s Allowance page.

Employment and Support Allowance

For individuals who are unable to work due to a disability or health condition, Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) can offer support. ESA is for people under State Pension age who are not working because of their health. There are two main types: contribution-based ESA, which depends on your National Insurance record, and income-related ESA, which is based on your financial situation. Most people will undergo a Work Capability Assessment to determine how their condition affects their ability to work. Depending on the outcome, you may be placed in a support group or work-related activity group. This placement will affect how much you receive. Weekly payments range from £90.50 to £114.10, and additional premiums may apply. You can find further details and apply on the GOV.UK ESA page.

Understanding Disability and How Caremark Preston Can Help You

Disability benefits are not only about the money. They also provide access to services such as the Motability Scheme, Blue Badge parking permits, help with travel costs, and council tax reductions. These benefits are there to support you in living a whole, independent, and dignified life. Understanding disability in Preston and applying for the right benefits can feel daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.. At Caremark Preston, our dedicated care team is here to guide you through the process. We provide practical assistance, from identifying the benefits you may be entitled to, helping with applications, and connecting you with the right professionals. This ensures that you or your loved ones get the financial support you need.

For personalised care and benefit guidance, contact our team today!  Let us help you access the support you deserve.