Health Needs
Attendance Allowance
If you are aged 65 or over and have needed help looking after yourself for at least 6 months, you can claim Attendance Allowance in order to help you with personal care.
For more information, visit DirectGov here:
www.direct.gov.uk/DisabledPeople/
For a claim form, visit DirectGov here:
www.direct.gov.uk/DisabledPeople/
Alternatively, you can call on 0800 88 22 00 (Textphone 0800 24 33 55). The line is open 8.30am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday, and from 9.00am to 1.00pm on Saturday.
Carers Allowance
If you are looking after a severely disabled person for at least 35 hours a week, you could receive a Carer's allowance.
For further information and to apply, visit the Directgov page here:
www.direct.gov.uk/caringforsomeone/
Alternatively, call the Carers Allowance Unit on 0845 608 4321 (8.30am - 5.00pm Monday to Thursday, 8.30am - 4.30pm Friday)
Health Costs
If you are aged 60 or above, you can receive free NHS prescriptions and eye tests (and if in Wales, free dental examinations). NHS hearing aids are available on free loan, and replacements and batteries are also free. Some people may also be eligible for free NHS chiropody services (this is determined by Primary Care Trusts.)
If you are receiving the guarantee element of Pension Credit, you may be able to get free NHS dental treatment, free wigs and free fabric supports. Refunds of necessary travel costs to hospitals for NHS treatments and check-ups can also be claimed.
There is also a NHS Low Income Scheme if you have less than £16 000 in savings. The limit is higher if you are a resident of a care home.
To find out more about these benefits, call the Health Costs Advice Line: 0845 850 1166 (8.00am to 6.00pm, Monday to Friday)
For more information visit DirectGov here:
War Disablement Pensions
If you have been injured or disabled during a time of war, or as a result of any service in Her Majesty's Armed Forces, you may be entitled to receive a range of allowances with the basic War Disablement Pension if you meet certain conditions.
For more information and how to claim, call the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency Freeline on 0800 169 22 77 (open from 8.15am to 5.15pm Monday to Thursday and 8.15am to 4.30pm on Friday).
National Benevolent Fund for the Aged