A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support.
The Borders Carers Centre are responsible for the Carers Support Plan which will help you put together a plan centred around your needs, and give you access to appropriate information, advice and support. Our services are FREE and independent. We support all carers over the age of 18 years.
https://www.borderscarerscentre.co.uk/
Lots of people are entitled to Attendance Allowance but don't know enough about it to claim.
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit. You'll be exempt from the Benefit Cap so you won't have money taken away from any other benefits.
You need to have reached State Pension age to claim Attendance Allowance. You also need to have a disability or illness that makes it hard for you to look after yourself.
You could get £61.85 or £92.40 a week - the amount you get will depend on how much help you need. You can spend the money however you like - it could help you stay independent in your own home for longer.
Attendance Allowance isn't means tested so it doesn't matter what other money you get. It doesn't matter how much you have in savings either - there's no limit.
It won't affect your state pension and you can claim it if you're still working and earning money.
You'll need to complete a long claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem daunting at first but help is available from your nearest Citizens Advice so don't let the form put you off applying. https://www.cas.org.uk/
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/attendance-allowance-claim-form