LOW INCOME / HELP WITH LIVING
Disability Living
Allowance
If a child needs extra care they may qualify
for the care component. If a child needs extra help getting
around they may qualify for the mobility component, the higher rate
giving them access to the Mobility Scheme that gives funds to buy
or hire a car. Not means tested.
Employment & Support
Allowance
Employment & Support Allowance is for
those over 16 who have an illness or disability and may need help
to move into work if they are able. It replaces Incapacity
Benefit. A Work Capability assessment looks at what they can
do rather than what they cannot and identifies any support they
need.
Carer’s Allowance
To qualify you must care for someone who gets
DLA and provides care for 35 hours a week or more. You must
not earn more than £95 per week or study for more than 21 hours per
week.
Job Seeker’s Allowance
This is payable for six months if there are
sufficient National Insurance Contributions after which it becomes
means tested. You must be working more than 16 hours per
week.
Income Support
A means tested benefit that includes help with
mortgage interest payments. This is for families with
children where one parent/carer works more than 16 hours per
week. The amount depends on circumstances but can include
childcare costs.
Also look at the following pages
Financial help with having
children
Financial help whist at
school
Financial help with housing
Financial help with
transport
Other financial help