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Employment and Support Allowance

Did you know that from 27 October 2008, the Employment and Support Allowance will replace Incapacity Benefit and Income Support claimed on the grounds of incapacity for new customers? The new system will consider what an individual is capable of, and what help and support they need to manage their condition and return to work. Between 2010 and 2013 it is intended that existing claimants will be brought into the new system. Existing benefits will continue in payment up until that point. A new test, the Work Capability Assessment, will be introduced in October 2008 for Employment and Support Allowance claims and will be applied to all those people claiming the new allowance. It will look at what an individual can do – rather than what they can’t do. The assessment will look at peoples physical and mental ability, including conditions such as learning disabilities and other similar conditions. Following this assessment most individuals will be given support and employment advice to enable them to return to work where possible. People whose condition causes very severe limitation of their ability, who are not able to engage in any work-related activity, will get a higher rate of benefit. They will still be able to volunteer to get support and employment advice if they want to. Further information about the Employment and Support Allowance as well as other benefit entitlements is available from either www.direct.gov.uk or the Jobcentre Plus.

Doctor! Doctor! I’m a carer! … and it’s no laughing matter

Does your GP know that you’re a carer? No? It’s a good idea to let them know so they can help you remain healthy, plus we discovered when talking to the NHS 24 nurses at the last Meeting Point Lunch that the information that NHS 24 has about you is drawn from your GP and is very basic – however you can ask your GP to ask NHS 24 to note that you are a carer. If you become unwell and they need to call an ambulance etc they’ll be able to let them know that there is someone who will need cared for whilst you’re not there. Don’t forget to fill in the information in a Safelink bottle so that ambulance men will know who to contact for help. Contact the centre to find out about Safelink.

Talking whilst eating!

It’s OK, we’re not encouraging bad manners! Just letting you know who we plan to have as guest speakers at the next few Meeting Point Lunches Friday 29 August will be John Honeyman from Telecare. Friday 26 September we’re hoping will be a speaker from WRVS. Friday 31 October will be Eric Walker from The Pension Service. Friday 28 November will be Don Williamson from Shared Care Scotland. The lunches are between 12 noon and 2pm on these dates and as well as the speakers and some lovely lunch (with no washing up involved) you can also take part in our brain bending quiz – you might even win a prize!

 

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