This is a benefit paid to a person who gives you a substantial amount of regular care. It is not affected by that person’s National Insurance contributions, but that person must be of working age. To qualify.
certain criteria must be met. You (the person being cared for) must be receiving:
Disability Living Allowance care element at the middle or higher rate; or
Constant Attendance Allowance at least the normal maximum rate; or
Attendance Allowance at either rate. Additionally, the person caring for you must be:
aged 16 to 65 when they claim;
spending at least 35 hours a week caring for you;
earning no more than 50 pounds per week (after deducting allowable expenses);
not attending full-time education (more than 21 hours per week).
The person caring for you may be able to claim more money if they are looking after your children or additional money for your children.
Depending on your circumstances, you might be entitled to other benefits such as:
Income Support
Family Credit
Housing Benefit
Council Tax Benefit
as well as help with the cost of prescriptions, hospital travel and other health-related expenses.
Again, you can either check for yourself in the Benefits Agency booklets, or ask to speak to the social worker at your hospital if you think you might qualify – or if you would just like to check exactly what you are entitled to claim.
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