By Bethany Gavaghan Fiona Callingham Linda Howard Lois McCarthy
Pensioners dealing with certain health conditions may qualify for additional financial assistance worth up to £441 monthly through Attendance Allowance. This benefit, provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is intended to assist those who have reached State Pension age and are living with a disability, long-term illness, or physical or mental health condition that impacts their daily routine. DWP statistics show that nearly 1.7 million older people were claiming Attendance Allowance as of August 2024. The payment comes in two tiers based on the level of care required: £73.90 or £110.40 weekly, equivalent to £295.60 or £441.60 monthly. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here The weekly sum depends on how much care is needed. According to the DWP, individuals requiring “frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night” may qualify for the lower rate of £73.90. Meanwhile, those who need “help or supervision throughout both day and night, or a medical professional has said you’re nearing the end of life” are entitled to the higher rate of £110.40. As highlighted by the Daily Record, Attendance Allowance is designed to help people of State Pension age cover the additional daily expenses linked to their condition. Figures show that 563,746 claimants (36%) have been receiving Attendance Allowance for more than five years, according to the Daily Star. Attendance Allowance serves as a vital lifeline for individuals dealing with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or mental or physical health conditions. The most commonly claimed condition is arthritis, providing support to 483,376 people across Great Britain. Data from the DWP reveals that roughly 47% of those claiming Attendance Allowance for arthritis receive an award that lasts five years or more. The following statistics demonstrate the number of claimants per condition and the percentage receiving payments for five years or longer. Those with lifelong, degenerative conditions unlikely to improve typically receive a longer award. Shorter awards are given where an improvement is anticipated. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here. The figure below represents all claimants up until the end of August 2024. Attendance Allowance is a benefit designed to assist with additional costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness that makes self-care challenging. It does not cater for mobility needs. Having a carer is not a prerequisite for making a claim. You should apply for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and require help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night – even if you’re not currently receiving this help. The DWP provides a list of common health issues that might qualify you for attendance allowance. They are as follows: If you struggle with everyday tasks, whether they take a long time, cause discomfort or require physical support like leaning on furniture, it might be worth considering applying for Attendance Allowance. It’s not just for those with a physical disability or illness. You should also consider applying if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have: The money can be used in any way you choose and it could assist in maintaining your independence at home for a longer period. Applying for Attendance Allowance may seem daunting due to the lengthy claim form. However, assistance is readily available from Citizens Advice and Independent Age. Detailed instructions on how to obtain the application form by post or phone can be found on the GOV.UK website.