Other benefits

We can also help with other benefits, including Carer’s Allowance and applications to the Family Fund.

Carer’s Allowance

Carer’s Allowance is a benefit of £69.70 a week for people who are giving regular and substantial care to disabled people (at least 35 hours a week).

You can usually get Carer’s Allowance if all of the following apply:

• You are aged 16 or over
• You are not in full time education
• You spend at least 35 hours a week caring for a disabled person
• You don’t earn more than £132 a week from employment or self-employment – after deductions such as income tax, National Insurance and half of your pension contributions
• You are not subject to immigration controls that would stop you getting benefits

To be eligible, the person you care for has to receive certain benefits, such as:

• Attendance Allowance
• Constant Attendance Allowance
• The care component of Disability Living Allowance at the middle or highest rate
• The daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (either rate)
• Armed Forces Independence Payment

You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for. If someone else also cares for the same person as you, only one of you can claim Carer’s Allowance.

Carer’s Allowance is a taxable benefit and forms part of your taxable income.

Family Fund

The Family Fund provides families raising a disabled, or seriously ill, child on low incomes with wide-ranging grants for essential items. You can apply for help with kitchen appliances, clothing and bedding, sensory or play equipment, a family holiday, or technology for your child.

For more information about how we can help with these, please contact our helpline.