As I understand it, it has all changed and new claimants have to claim for PIP (Personal Independence Payment). The higher rate is based on your ability to do things for yourself and the support you need. My husband is receiving it because, at the time of completing the form, which is what they assess, he was unable to walk more than 50 metres and needed assistance with some basic activities like getting dressed, cooking a meal etc. His condition fluctuates a bit but he’s certainly in that position now. There are different qualifying categories and the claim can be (supposedly) speeded-up for people who are in the final stages of their illness – but your disease does not need to be terminal in order to qualify.
This is a sketchy overview based on our experience so does not give a full picture. I don’t know what happens if you are already in receipt of DLA. We received a lot of help and support from the MacMillan benefits advisor who is based in the Citizens Advice Bureau locally but came to visit my husband in hospital. He was able to speed up the claim and to reassure us. I would recommend contacting your local advisor as they deal with these claims all the time and can help you fill in the forms. I’d certainly recommend getting all the help you can. The forms are lengthy and it’s hard to know what is relevant. We’re both graduates and we struggled!
I’m sorry to hear you feel you are at that stage in your disease. Having a little security in order to afford the help you need would certainly relieve some of the stress.
Sarah
