News 3
posted: 03/03/2008
Disability Living Allowance Review and Crusaid take a break
Disability Living Allowance Review
Many HIV+ people on the highest rate of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for care will have their claims reviewed. Some people have DLA under what are known as the "special rules". These give a fast track to the highest rate of DLA with the minimum of fuss, when doctors expect someone to die within about six months.
Anyone who has had special rules DLA for more than three years will be reviewed in 2008. Many HIV-positive people (usually gay men) diagnosed in the 1980s and 1990s have survived and proved the doctors wrong. In 2006 a three year limit was added to the special rules and the Disability and Carers Service decided to look again at everyone paid over three years. Under 55s are being checked first, with all reviews completed by the year end.
People may lose the high rate care component. Some will also see a drop in the amount of income support and housing / council tax benefits. Incapacity and other benefits however should be completely untouched.
People will still be able to get DLA as long as they can show they now fit the normal rules. There are three rates of DLA payment. No one should have to pay any money back.
Get advice from benefits and HIV experts at George House Trust and follow the suggestions on our website.
Crusaid Takes A Break
Crusaid Hardship Fund is closed temporarily until April 7th for an overhaul and update of their systems. This means George House Trust is unable to make any applications to Crusaid until then. The services team is advising about alternative sources of grants and, where appropriate, making applications for them.
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