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Information, advice and guidance

If you’re looking for information about the benefits you or your family might be eligible for, grants available, or the support locally, we can help.

What help can I get?

We can advise you on a range of benefits, such as:

  • Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
  • Carers Allowance
  • Universal Credit

We can help you complete the application forms, although we’ll always encourage you to do as much as you can yourself to help you become more independent.

We also can help you find assistance for essential items in your home if you’re struggling financially.

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Claiming benefits

It’s important to make sure you get all the financial help you may be entitled to.

Depending on your condition and/or circumstances, you could be entitled to benefits such as:

Are you missing out on benefits?

Based on information you provide, this calculator can tell you if there might be extra support you're potentially entitled to.

If you need help to complete the form, or require further information, call 020 3198 0225 or email connections@rsbc.org.uk.

Online benefits calculator

Help with transport and getting around

  • Disabled bus pass You can apply for this through your local authority
  • Blue badge Allows you to park in disabled spaces
  • Vehicle tax exemption or reduction You may be eligible if you have your own car, have a nominated driver and are in receipt of higher mobility Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or enhanced rate mobility for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
  • Leasing a car, powered wheelchair or scooter If you’re in receipt of a high rate Disability Living Allowance mobility component or enhanced rate mobility for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
  • Disabled railcard Receive 1/3 off adult rail fares and, if you’re travelling with another adult, they’ll get a 1/3 off, too.
  • Freedom Pass If you live in London, a Freedom Pass allows free travel across the city. You can apply through your local authority.

Healthcare

If you or your parent/guardian are receiving certain benefits, you may be entitled to the following:

You can get advice on money and debt from Money Advice. They also offer live web chat. This can be busy, but do keep trying.

Carer's Allowance

Carer’s Allowance is a benefit for people who look after a disabled person. Only one parent can claim for Carer’s Allowance. You’ll qualify for Carer’s Allowance if you:

  •  Are aged 16 and over.
  •  Are caring for someone who is receiving the highest or middle rate of Disability Living Allowance care component, or any rate of the Daily Living Component of Personal Independence Payment.
  •  Provide care for at least 35 hours a week (any times).
  •  Are not earning more than £151 a week.
  •  Are not a full-time student.
  •  Satisfy certain residence conditions and are not a person subject to immigration control.

How to apply?

  1. Complete the Carer's allowance online form
  2. You’ll receive a letter within a few weeks. Called the ‘award letter’, it will
    tell you what you’re entitled to, how much it is, and when you’ll get your
    first payment.

  • Support for your
    Family

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    Dedicated vision impairment support for the whole family

    Family support

  • Activities and
    Events

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    Get involved with clubs and activities for every age and taste

    What's coming up

  • Connect with
    Families

    Come together with other families to share experiences

    Meet other families

Get in touch

If you’d like to speak to us about anything, or if you have any questions, please fill the form below or contact us  connections@rsbc.org.uk