Help with which benefits to claim

I would go to CAB - what have you got to lose? She says she knows most of the forms and application processes off by heart - I know I would go to them if I were in a pickle.

It depends who each branch can employ/get hold of, ethel as most of their 'employees' are actually volunteers. DD has just completed her 5th year of a law degree so can give law advice pretty much straight away, but she is the only one they can get hold of and she can only spare one day a week, and she finds that very hard to fit in with childcare/exams/part-time job.

the problem with CAB is that you have a query and you need it answered now!. If you go to CAB, they give you a quick interview and then you are put onto the list for a more detailed interview with a specialised person but that list is often 6 weeks long. It used to be that you could drop in and be seen straight away and come away with some answers but not anymore.

kittylester definitely CAB. They gave me wonderful advice and help with benefits claims obo my mother.

Ethel keep well.

But if you're dead and haven't taken out a mortgage protection policy, your dependants might wish you had regardless of benefits.

Beware anyone taking out a mortgage protection policy, they take it into account if you ever need to apply for benefits.

My first thoughts are ESA, DLA, housing benefit and Carer's Allowance. If he has problems walking he can also apply for a blue badge for the car.

direct.gov.uk and turn2us.org.uk both have a thing called a benefits checker on them. They are anonymous - you have to fill in a load of details, press a button at the end and it will tell you what benefits you are entitled to.

A spouse or friend/relative might be able to claim carer's allowance but would need to do the benefits checker themselves as it would be awarded to them not the person who needs care.

Hi Gaga Im fine, healing well, been to see specialist and they say no further treatment I have to see another doc next week then no more check ups till 3 months. I really must think about work soon, although I am still sore from the op and get deadly tired by lunchtime. I think that work will give me less time to brood and worry if its coming back.
thank you for asking

I hope you are feeling much better ethel and are well on the road to full recovery. Let us know how you are - I often think of you and wonder.

Thank you both!

was he working prior to his illness, if so his employer should be paying wages or at least Statuary Sick Pay for at least 6 months. He must then claim ESA from the DWP. They are very helpful and you can make the claim over the phone. I know this as I have just applied as I have been off sick for over 6 months now, however ESA is means tested and they take into account other income. You can also apply online and look online at GOV.UK to read what other benefits available.
I hope your relative gets sorted Dusty.
My claim was rejected as I have a small private health insurance.

I can't help with which benefits kitty but I do know that when DS was claiming long term sickness benefit, he got a lot if help, and his money went up , when he took our advice, eventually, and saw CAB. They can come to the house if necessary.