Dying Matters Awareness Week is promoted by Hospice UK as ‘an opportunity for us to come together to open up the conversation around dying and grief’. To mark the week, Robin attended an event with Minster for Disabled People, Tom Pursglove MP, to raise awareness of the changes to access to financial support.
Last month the Department for Work and Pensions introduced new Special Rules for End of Life (SREL) to support people in their end of life care. These new rules will provide new routes of access to the necessary financial support to those who find themselves in this difficult position.
From the 3rd of April individual who are likely to live less than 12 months will have been able to claim the following benefits via the SREL route;
- Personal Independence Payment
- Disability Living Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance
You can find more information on the gov.uk website here - www.gov.uk/benefits-end-of-life
Robin said:
‘I was pleased to support this event to raise awareness of the financial support available to people suffering from terminal illnesses. The additional support announced by government last month is a welcome addition to the support that is already out there. In Worcester we have two fantastic hospices who go beyond just treating illnesses.
‘Both Acorns Hospice and St Richards offers family support and holistic care to ensure the best possible conditions for those with terminal illness. Last week I was delighted to take part in the Malvern Hills Walk in support of St Richards in recognition of the support they gave my father and my family in the precious last days of his life.
‘Additionally, my office regularly helps constituents in this difficult time to access the support available. If you or a family member needs assistance in access any of these benefits please contact my office at robin.walker.mp@parliament.uk or you can arrange a meeting at one of my regular constituency surgeries.’