MARK Collier of Beloved Homecare is writing an advice column providing information to our readers, this time he talks about attendance allowance.

Attendance Allowance is money for people age pension age or over who have care needs. You may have care needs if you need help with activities of daily living, such as getting dressed, going to the toilet or having someone to look after you so you do not hurt yourself. It could include help outside the home. It does not matter if no one actually gives this help, as long as you can show you need it.You can have any type of disability or illness, including sight or hearing impairments, or mental health issues such as dementia or depression. To claim it, you must have needed help with your care needs for at least six months.

It is paid at two different rates and how much you get depends on the level of care that you need because of your disability.

It is not means-tested so your income and savings are not taken into account when assessing if you qualify for the benefit.Claiming Attendance Allowance won’t reduce any other income you receive

Can I get Attendance Allowance?

You must not be living in a council care home or in hospital. You must be living in the UK when you make a claim for Attendance Allowance. Also you must usually have lived in the UK for six months in the last year.

How much Attendance Allowance will I get?

The rates are: the lower rate is £59.70 a week. You get this if you need frequent care throughout the day or night, the higher rate is £89.15 a week. You get this if you need frequent care throughout the day and night or if you are terminally ill.

How do I claim Attendance Allowance?

Phone the Attendance Allowance helpline: 0800 731 0122.

If you want information about Beloved Homecare email mark@belovedhomecare.co.uk.