This page sets out the benefits available through the Social Security Department, depending on your circumstances. You may be entitled to these benefits which exist to help you have a more comfortable life, so contact the department on either 01481-732508 or visit http://www.gov.gg/supplementarybenefit. If you need, a Social Security Officer can visit you at your home to take your claim instead of you calling into the office.
Benefits
Severe Disability Benefit & carers allowance: If you have a medical condition or disability that means you require care in order to live at home, you may be able to claim benefit.
Long-term Care Benefit: If you need to move into a residential or nursing care home (which is not run by the States) you may be able to receive long-term care benefit. Long-term care benefit is paid weekly and helps towards the cost of living in a private care home.
Income Support: This scheme helps those who need more money each week than they have coming in from their pensions. It’s particularly helpful where people may not have a full pension. By claiming Income Support (depending on your level of income and savings) you can get a weekly cash top up. You can also have your doctor, nurse and other medical appointments paid for. In the winter you can also get a winter fuel allowance to help with the cost of extra heating.
If you have more than £13,000 in savings or assets (£15,000 for couples) you will not be entitled to Income Support, but if you are living in a house which you own, the value of the house is ignored.
Extra Needs Allowance: Those with special needs can also get an extra needs allowance, and help with the cost of medical equipment such as wheelchairs, stair-lifts and showers.
Bereavement Benefit: Financial support may be available to you if your spouse passes away.