The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that more people nearing the end of their life will have fast-track access to financial support through the benefits system thanks to new rules implemented on April 4.
The changes mean people on Universal Credit and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) who are thought to be in their final year of their life will be able to receive vital support through ‘Special Rules’, six months earlier than they were able to previously.
The DWP confirmed that those who are eligible will not be subject to a face-to-face assessment, and in the majority of cases, will receive the highest rate of benefits.
What does the rule change mean in real-terms?
The rule change means that a person who makes a new claim for Universal Credit under the Special Rules for End of Life (SREL) could receive an additional £354.28 per month for having limited capability for work and work-related activity of from day one of their claim
If eligible for New Style ESA, a person making a new claim could receive the highest rate of benefit of £117.60 per week from day one of their claim to support them in the last months of their life.
Commenting on the rule change, Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work Chloe Smith MP said: “Helping more people in the final year of their life get faster access to vital financial support is the right thing to do.
“I hope by extending this support it will alleviate the financial concerns of those nearing the end of their life and their families in the most challenging of times.”
The DWP said clinicians still have discretion under the updated rules and will be supported by a realistic and straightforward definition, which aligns with current NHS practice.
National Clinical Director for End of Life Care at NHS England, Professor Bee Wee, said: “I am really pleased to see this change which will enable earlier and faster access to financial support for people who are likely to be in their last year of life.
“This additional support is of such vital importance to many people, and those important to them, during this difficult time.”
Marie Curie chief executive, Matthew Reed said: “We are delighted to see this important change come into force for Universal Credit and ESA claimants, following years of campaigning.
“This will help ensure more dying people can concentrate on making the most of the limited time they have left, rather than worrying about their finances.”
CEO of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Sally Light said: “We now hope that more people living with complex and unpredictable terminal illnesses like motor neurone disease will be able to access the support they need via those benefits swiftly and sensitively.”
The changes will be extended to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Attendance Allowance as soon as Parliamentary time allows.
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