Apart from the obvious health disadvantage, MS can also mean a dramatic financial burden to many of us. For many of us, MS can mean an end to a full working life which inevitably can mean a serious lack of money.
Our team has put together a few tips on how to perhaps make life a bit easier financially for you. It must be stressed that our circumstances may be different and therefore not all benefits are relevant to you. This is not a complete list of benefits and we are not financial experts so please check with the correct authorities to confirm entitlement. Nor can we be responsible for wrong information.
We have also included some entitlements and tips that do not necessarily save you money but are useful to know. Also please remember that the National MS Society Website is a goldmine of information for most of your queries.
GOVERNMENT BENEFITS
Incapacity Benefit
If you lose your job through ill health, you may be entitled to this benefit. Usually, you must have paid enough National Insurance contributions to qualify, but not if you are incapable of work before aged 20, or 25 in some cases. Incapacity Benefit is not affected by savings or by most kinds of income, other than occupational and personal pensions.
For more information, contact the Dept. for Work & Pensions or: Freephone 0800 882200 (Benefit Enquiry Line)
IMPORTANT, BENEFIT CHANGE
As of October 2008 Incapacity Benefit will be replaced by Employment Support Allowance (ESA) which is intended for people with a medical condition that prevents them from working, and Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) for those who are able to work.
ESA begins for new claimants in October 2008 and those already claiming Incapacity Benefit will be moved to the new ESA by 2013. It is intended that those now claiming Incapacity Benefit and new claimants will go through a medical assessment. The government says that people with severe disabilities will get more money under ESA. Income Support claimants will be moved to either ESA or JSA.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Is a benefit for adults and children with disabilities. If you are under 65yrs of age and need help with mobility and/or care, then D.L.A. is worth considering. There are three levels of care & two levels of mobility. If you receive the higher rate of mobility there are other benefits available including free road fund tax for your car. You can claim D.L.A. even if you are working and it is not means tested. It is not taxable and you do not need to have paid National Insurance contributions.
For further information, freephone 0800 882200 (Benefit Enquiry Line)
Claiming DLA
Claiming DLA is not always a simple process. MS is a fluctuating condition, with symptoms which may come and go, and many people find the task of applying for benefit difficult and distressing. A new 40 - page booklet from the MS Society is the most comprehensive step-by-step guide to the DLA ever written for people with MS. In easy stages, the booklet explains who qualifies for DLA and gives page-by-page tips on how to fill in the claim form without missing out important details. It includes examples to show how keeping a diary can help with the assessment and describes what can be done if a claim is turned down.
Claiming DLA is available by writing to the information team at the MSNC or you can go to www.mssociety.org.uk to download a copy.
Attendance Allowance
If you are more than 65 yrs of age, then Attendance Allowance replaces D.L.A. This allowance has no mobility component or lower rate care component but has two rates of payment. Conditions of entitlement are very similar to D.L.A.
For further information, freephone 0800 882200 (Benefit Enquiry Line)
Carers Allowance
If you are receiving Attendance Allowance or the middle or high rate care component of D.L.A. it is possible that someone can claim Carers Allowance in order to care for you. They must spend at least 35 hours a week caring for you but they need not be related to you. There is a limit on their earnings if they have a job and they can’t be in full time education. There are quite a few conditions concerning Carers Allowance so it is best to ring the DWP freephone advice line for disabled people and carers (0800 882200) for further details and to receive claim form DS700.
Income Support
INCOME SUPPORT is a means tested benefit that is intended to provide for basic living expenses for yourself and your family. Don’t be too proud to claim IS because it is a benefit that you may be entitled to if your income is less than the law says you need to live on. It provides payment direct to you but may also provide benefit in the form of help with mortgage interest payments, housing benefit, council tax, prescriptions, dental treatment, school meals, hospital fares etc. etc. Unfortunately, making a claim for it can be quite a daunting task so it may pay to get help from your local Citizens Advice Bureau. Your local Multiple Sclerosis Society branch will also point you in the right direction. A useful reference book about Income Support and all other benefits is the Disability Rights Handbook, which contains quite a comprehensive list of all benefits. Your library will probably hold a copy (it is also available on CD Rom).
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ THIS REGARDING CHANGES TO THE INCOME SUPPORT
Listed above are probably the most popular benefits, but there are some other benefits that are also worth checking e.g.
Budgeting Loans
If you have been receiving Income Support or income-based Jobseeker's Allowance for at least six months, you may be entitled to a loan to pay for things like clothing, bedding or a washing machine. You will have to repay the loan though, unlike a Community Care Grant which may also be available to ease exceptional pressures on you.
Council Tax Benefit
Is available to people on a low income a little capital. This is a very under claimed benefit so if you think that you qualify for it, CLAIM.
Disabled Students Allowance
If you are a student in higher education and you need help or equipment, clian DSA. Money can be used for a support worker, heating, specialised computer equipment etc. Apply to your Local Education Authority (England/Wales) or Student Award Agency (Scotland).
For more info visit www.skill.org.uk or telephone 0800 328 5050
Housing Benefit
Is another means tested benefit for those who pay rent. Claim forms are available from your local authority.
Working Tax Credit
Is paid by the Inland Revenue to people who are perhaps unable to perform a full time job because of their MS. Certain conditions will apply but why not check it out?
Visit www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk or telephone 0845 300 3900 If you are unsure where to claim for any benefits, telephone the Benefits Enquiry Line on Freephone 0800 882 200 who will be happy to help.
Or to contact the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) helpline tel: 08457 123 456
GETTING AROUND
Shopmobility
If you are having problems walking around the shops, there may be a Shopmobility scheme in your nearby town. Shopmobility is a service that hire wheelchairs and scooters at really reasonable rates. Shopmobility can enable you to regain your independence and become mobile again to explore the shops.Your local Council Office will probably be aware of a scheme in your area.
Wheelchair voucher scheme
If you feel that you need a wheelchair for yourself, ask your G.P to refer you to the nearest wheelchair clinic. After an assessment, the N.H.S may supply you with a wheelchair or perhaps issue you with a voucher to assist with the purchase of one. Powered wheelchairs can be obtained on the N.H.S but you will be fully assessed for your need and your property usually needs to be wheelchair user friendly.
Buying Wheelchairs/Scooters
If you feel that you would prefer to buy your own wheelchair or scooter there are plenty of shops that supply them. However, it is always worth considering buying a used model. It is a fact that wheelchairs / scooters are worth far less once they have had use. Check the small ads in the local papers, disability magazines, shops etc. or the internet can be well worth a visit.
Try www.ebay.co.ukwhich is an auction website offering plenty of second user wheelchairs / scooters as well as other products for disabled people.
Motability scheme
If you or your child is in receipt of the high mobility rate of D.L.A or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement you are probably entitled to get a powered wheelchair, scooter or car under the Motability scheme.
Your Mobility component can be used to finance a contract which will get you a new vehicle, insurance, maintenance and breakdown cover. There is also a hire purchase scheme for new and used cars.
For more details call Freephone 0800 093 1000 Or visit www.motability.co.uk
Travel tokens
Some local authorities offer concessions to disabled people on local buses or they may offer travel tokens that may be accepted by taxis or other transport providers e.g Dial a Ride. Telephone your local council to find out what travel concessions are available.
Blue Badge scheme
If you have a severe mobility problem, you may be entitled to a blue parking badge. A blue badge will enable you to park a car in a parking space reserved for disabled people or even on double yellow lines, as long as there are not specific restrictions. You do not have to be the driver of the car to have use of a blue badge. Obtain an application form from your local authority.
Car breakdown cover
Vehicle organisations i.e. AA, RAC offer reduced rates for disabled people. (You do not have to be the driver).
London congestion charge
If you receive free road fund tax because you get the high rate mobility component of DLA, then the London congestion charge does not apply to you. Cameras are linked to DVLA so you will not get a fine as long as you display a current disabled tax disc.
Blue badge holders can also be exempt but it is necessary for them to pay a registration fee.
Rail travel
If you get a Disabled Persons Railcard for £14 per year, you can save up to 1/3 on most rail fares + rail/sea trips to Ireland.
Apply to the:
Disabled Persons Railcard Office,
PO Box 1YT,
Newcastle-on-Tyne,
NE99 1YT,
National Rail
Get a free National Rail Map for people with mobility difficulties. It shows all the stations in Britain with useful information such as where you can get onto all platforms without having to use any steps.
Write to:
PRM Map,
Disability & Inclusion,
3rd Floor,
40 Bernard St.
London,
WC1N 1BY,
Fares Discounts
Also, if you join the
Disabled Drivers Association,
Athwellthrope,
Norwich,
NR16 1EX.
MISCELLANEOUS BENEFITS AND TIPS
The Outside Clinic
Did you know that you can have an eye examination in your own home if you are unable to visit a high street optician unaccompanied?
The Outside Clinic is a privately owned company and the largest provider of home eye testing services. Full eye examinations and comprehensive eye-health checks are carried out by fully qualified optometrists who are trained with dealing with elderly or vulnerable people.
Your sight test will be free if you fall into any of the following categories:
- Aged 60 or over,
- Under 16, or under 19 and in full-time education,
- Registered blind or partially sighted,
- Diagnosed as having diabetes or glaucoma,
- 40 or over with a direct relative with glaucoma, or you have been advised by an ophthalmologist that you are at risk of glaucoma,
- Prescribed a complex lens.
- Income Support or Income Based Job Seekers Allowance (not contribution based),
- Working Tax Credit and are named on a Tax Credit NHS Exemption Certificate,
- Child Tax Credit and are named on a Tax Credit NHS Exemption Certificate,
- You are named on a NHS certificate for full or partial help with health costs (HC2/3),
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.
You can request a test online at www.outsideclinic.com or call on their freefone number 0800 844477.
Financial Assistance
Quite often people living with MS can be asked to pay a large part towards the cost of things they need. Invariably, the official funding falls short, or does not cater for essential items. For example, you may need to contribute more towards a Disabled Facilities Grant than you can afford or maybe you need more money than the MS Society grants system can providefor you. A good source of help can often come from local organisations e.g. Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, Masonic Lodges, and Round Tables so don’t be afraid to ask. An organisation called the Directory of Social Change publishes a book called 'A Guide to Grants for Individuals in Need'. Many MS Society branches have a copy, and there is probably one in your local library. The guide’s website gives details of of over 3,500 trusts operating both nationally and locally. These trusts collectively have £362 million available each year. Don’t give up hope of obtaining that essential item, there is help out there.
Computers
Love ‘em or hate ‘em, computers seem to be playing a major part in our lives today. If you cannot use a computer, don’t be afraid to learn. There are lots of courses available at evening classes, many of which are free or at a reduced rate. Most local Councils are aware of classes that are available so why not have a go?
Computers in libraries
Most public libraries now have computers for public use. You can spend up to two hours a day using the free facility if you hold a membership card. All of the computers have internet facilities so why not surf for free.
Council Tax reduction for wheelchair use
If you need to use a wheelchair indoors or have a room that meets the needs of a disabled person, you will probably be entitled to have your Council Tax reduced by one band.
Criteria : You must be substantially & permanenrly disabled AND one of the following must apply:
- You have a 2nd bathroom or kitchen needed by that person; or,
- You have a room (other than a bathroom, kitchen or toilet) needed by and prediminately use by that person; or,
- You have enough space in your dwelling for that person to use a wheelchair which he or she needs indoors.
Between £590m & £860m is unclaimed each year for this benefit so get on the phone soon and start your claim if you feel entitled.
Free prescriptions
If your M.S prevents you from leaving home to collect a prescription from the chemist without the help of another person, you are probably entitled to exemption from prescription charges. Obtain Form FP92A from your Doctor, Dentist or Pharmacist to apply.
Flu Jab
Please be aware that people with MS are entitled to a free flu jab on the NHS and the same benefit also applies to their carers.
Free Directory Enquiries
If you have a problem with using a telephone directory because maybe your hands don’t work too well, you are probably entitled to receive free Directory Enquiries. Telephone your telephone company for full details.
Information
A new BT charge!!!
Please be aware that from 1st August 2004 you will be charged for BT ring-back service. If you dial 1471 to see if anyone has rung, make a note of the number and dial it back yourself - no charge. If you use the 3 button for automatic ring-back, it will cost you 6p every time. You Have Been Warned
Warning
Before BT introduced the 1571 answer service, you knew if a number was engaged because it was indicated by an intermittent tone. Your cost of the call - NIL If you ring a number now and the call is 1571 registered, an automated voice tells you that the line is engaged and it costs you money to find out that you cannot be connected.
A tip: count six rings and hang up before the expensive voice starts charging you.
Radar key
Throughout the country there are about 4000 toilets that are wheelchair user friendly. They are always locked but you can obtain a key at a cost of £3 from your local council or from Radar,
Tel: 0207 2503 222
You could also buy a guide for £8 from Radar www.radar.org.uk.
Radar produce various books including the very useful “If Only I’d Known That A Year Ago”. So look at the website; You can order online if you want.
Loo card
What’s worse than needing to use the loo only to find a queue. Obtain a free card from the M.S Society (Helpline number:0800 800 8000) which explains to people in front of you that because you have M.S, you need to go NOW. Radar can also supply a Just Cant Wait card.
Uribag
Is a useful little aid for men that really need a loo now. it is a little tube (3ins. long x 17/8 ins. diam) with a lid which contains a rubber bag. The bag can be easily emptied, cleaned and re-used. They are quite inexpensive but are also available on prescription. There is also a feminine attachment available.
Contact Mansfred Sauer UK on 0870 1 904 100. Manfred Sauer is the company that also produce urinary sheaths in 11 sizes and legbags. For confidential advice and free sample sheath, telephone Stephen on 0870 1 904 150
Viagra
Viagra has certainly had a lot of publicity over the last few years. It is used by 20 million men in 110 countries because it is extremely effective when appropriately prescribed. Viagra is available on private prescription but is expensive at about £9 a pill. However, if you have Multiple Sclerosis, yor G.P can prescribe Viagra for you on the N.H.S. It must be stressed that Viagra must only be prescribed and taken with the approval of your G.P.
Occupational Therapy Services
If you feel that you could benefit from the services of an O.T. then you can either be referred by your G.P. or you could refer yourself by contacting the local Social Services dept. They may not be able to help directly but they will point you in the right direction. An O.T can assess your situation to see if he or she can suggest any way that your quality of life can be improved.
Social Services or Health O.T.
Under the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970, the local authority social sevices department has a duty in some circumstances to arrange for the provision of equipment and adaptations to the home for the greater safety, comfort or convenience of any disabled person.
Examples of benefits that can be given to you are grab rails, specialised furniture etc. as well as professional advice. Home visits can be arranged or a local clinic is available.
Disabled Facilities Grant.
If your home needs major adaptations to cater for your needs, then a Disabled Facility Grant may be the answer. An Occupational Therapist will assess your situation to recommend what facilities are required. It might be that it has become difficult to use a bath in which case you may need to have a shower fitted or you may even need to have another room added to your property. Depending on your financial situation, you will be required to contribute towards the cost of the grant but the grant is highly subsidised.
Many thousands of pounds can be awarded for a DFG and therefore is a benefit worth considering.
Dustbin Collection
If you are unable to move your refuse bin to the front of your house for collection, ask your local council for “Special Assist” service and the collection crew will be advised to collect your bin from the rear of your property.
Disability Discrimination Act
The D.D.A 1995 makes it unlawful to discriminate against disabled people in connection with employment, education, the provision of goods, facilities and services or the disposal or management of premises, and allows the government to set standards and targets for accessible public transport. From October 2004, service providers (e.g shops, restaurants etc) must make reasonable adjustments to their premises to enable disabled people to use the services offered to anyone. A website has been launched to provide advice on the DDA.
www.open4all.org
Disability Law Service
If you are having problems with disability discrimination at work, access to goods, services and facilities, or social and health care, contact the DLS who can give free specialist legal advice to you. In certain cases, the DLS may be able to provide representation at courts and tribunals. The MS Society pays the DLS to offer additional legal services for people with MS from solicitors who specialise in the DDA and community care.
If you need help, either contact the DLS direct on 02077919800 (quoting the MS Society) Or, Contact your local MS branch who will contact the DLS for you Or, Go to www.dis.org.uk
Great Website
Jeanie Read, an MSer from Surrey has formed a website which can save you thousands of pounds. Jeannie refuses to pay the full price for anything if she can get away with it and she has formed a website to help you do the same.
Log on to www.madaboutbargains.co.uk and prepare to be amazed.
Save VAT
Because of your disability, you may need to have adaptations done to your home (building work), or adaptations to your car. If so, you may be able to avoid paying the VAT. A phone call to Customs & Excise could save you money.
To Register Disabled can be beneficial
You do not have to become a registered disabled person in order to qualify for an assessment or to obtain services from your local authority. However if you do register as being disabled, it reflects the number of disabled people in the community, therefore perhaps improving the facilities for us. If you do register, you will be given a registration card which can be used to perhaps obtain concessions when offered. Your local Social Services office will register you.
Aid-Call
Aid-Call is a useful device which summons help when you need it. A base unit is connected to your telephone line, and a personal emergency button. This can be worn as a pendant, or like a watch, or clipped to your clothes like a brooch or pen. Never feel alone again because help can be available quickly with Aid-Call.
Cost:
There are 2 options, both with an initial set up fee.
Option A: Initial fee £99 Quaterly charge £38.50 (equivalent to £2.96 per Week)
Option B: Initial fee £375 Annual charge £60 (equivalent to £1.15 per week for more details: Tel: Freephone 0800 77 22 66
Address:
Aid-Call,
Freepost (EX2356),
Newton Abbot,
Devon,
TQ13 7BR.
or visit www.aidcall-alarms.co.uk
The Warm Front Grant
A Government funded scheme is available to those who either own their own home or who rent from a private landlord. Disabled people on certain benefits are eligible for a grant of up to £2,500.The scheme exists to make homes warmer, healthier and more energy efficient. You could also be on average £179 better off each year on fuel savings.Lack of adequate heating can exacerbate existing health and mobility problems. For those who are not in receipt of benefits at the moment, there may also be help at hand. Eaga Partnership run a Benefit Entitlement Check service which can identify any benefits which you should be receiving.
For further information on Warm Front or the Benefit Check, telephone Eaga Partnership free on 0800 072 0610 or visit www.eaga.co.uk
For impartial energy advice and any other available grants contact a local energy efficiency advice centre, telephone 0800 512 012
FREE CINEMA TICKETS
A new national card scheme has been launched throughout 500 cinemas in the UK , entitling the holder to one free ticket for a person accompanying them in the cinema. People can apply for The Cinema Exhibitors Association Card, if they meet one or more of the following criteria:
- They are in receipt of Disability Living Allowance,
- They are a registered blind person,
Although there is a small administration charge of £5.50, the card is valid for 1 year from the date of issue.Application forms are available from cinemas across the UK supporting this card. Alternatively, download an application form to print out and fill in from www.ceacard.co.uk
Email:info@ceacard.co.uk
If you have any difficulty, please contact us at the address below:
The CEACARD,
PO Box 199,
Deeside,
CH5 OBW.
Tel: 0845 123 1292
Minicom/Text phone: 0845 123 1297
Useful/Interesting Websites
- www.mswebpals.org
- Jooly’s Joint is a good site for Msers.
- www.yourlevelbest.com
- Accessible places to eat and drink
- www.open4all.org
- www.disability.gov.uk
- Read all about the Disability Discrimination Act
- www.nationalrail.co.uk
- Information about trains, including disabled assistance
- www.healthspan.co.uk
- You could save loads of money by buying your vitamins from Healthspan. Even more if you buy on line - Post free.
- www.msdecisions.org.uk
- A website which explains in detail the implications of taking MS disease modifying drugs, beta interferon and glatiramer acetate.
- www.lifeandms.org.uk
- Really good website for the newly diagnosed.
- If you have any interesting sites to share, please contact Alam Brind via the Contact Us Page and they will be added to the list.
We hope that you have found the list of benefits and tips useful. If you have any comments or can add to the list please contact Alam Brind.