The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is highlighting that Attendance Allowance can provide pensioners with up to £114.60 per week, as the new Labour government under Prime Minister Andy Burnham prioritises support for those facing the cost-of-living crisis. Burnham, who took office last week, has pledged to give struggling households "breathing space" with concrete financial measures.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit designed to help older people with extra costs arising from a disability or health condition that requires personal care. It is not means-tested and can be claimed regardless of income or savings. The allowance specifically covers help with personal support, such as washing, dressing, or needing supervision to stay safe. Importantly, it does not cover mobility needs, which are addressed by other benefits.
Weekly rates and eligibility
The benefit is paid at two rates depending on the level of care required. Pensioners can receive either £76.70 or £114.60 per week. To qualify, claimants must have a physical or mental disability, or a health condition, and be at or above State Pension age. The higher rate applies when the need for help is more substantial, while the lower rate corresponds to lesser care requirements.
Additional financial support
Receiving Attendance Allowance can also act as a gateway to other benefits. Those who qualify may become entitled to extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction. This means the overall financial impact can be greater than the weekly allowance itself, offering valuable relief to pensioners on low incomes.
Burnham's cost-of-living promises
In his inaugural address from Downing Street, Burnham spoke of delivering the "biggest changes in the last 40 years" to British politics. He announced plans for a 10-year "new plan for Britain" to be unveiled later this year, outlining a path to "where we all want Britain to be." Alongside this long-term vision, he committed to immediate action. On Tuesday, he promised to set out measures designed to "give people some breathing space now, some help with the cost of living," and to explain how these would be funded.
Chancellor Rachel Healey echoed this commitment, stating that the government and the Treasury would "work in lockstep to meet the fiscal rules with a buffer against uncertainty" while focusing on "making life more affordable for working people right across the UK." Although Healey's comments were aimed at workers, pensioners are expected to be a key beneficiary of the new administration's policies, given the prominence of social support in the agenda.
How to apply
Pensioners who believe they may be eligible for Attendance Allowance are encouraged to contact the DWP or use the government's online service. Applying is straightforward, and backdating is possible if a claim is made within a certain timeframe. With the new government's focus on easing financial pressures, making the most of available benefits has never been more important.
As Burnham's administration prepares to unveil its broader economic strategy, the immediate, practical support offered by Attendance Allowance stands out as a lifeline for elderly individuals facing the combined challenges of health issues and rising living costs. The weekly payments of £114.60 can make a significant difference to quality of life, providing funds for essential care or additional household expenses.
