Financial assistance
We have a lot information on welfare and benefits which you can find linked below:
Citizens Advice have a lot of information about welfare including eligibility and how to apply.
Age UK has a benefits calculator and a list of assistance you might be eligible for, such as bereavement benefits.
All services are available on the government website:
You may be able to get financial help for travel costs if you are on a low income and need NHS treatment at a hospital, doctor or dentist.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can get 1/3 off rail travel for you and an adult companion. It costs £20 for a year or £54 for three years.
If you are aged 60 and over then you can apply for a senior railcard and receive up to 1/3 of rail fares. It costs £35 for a year or £80 for three years.
If you are disabled, you may be able to park in restricted areas under the Blue Badge scheme. The scheme is for drivers and passengers.
The Energy Company Obligation scheme means you may be able to get help for energy-saving home improvements, if you either claim certain benefits or live in social housing.
As Scleroderma and Raynaud’s patients need to maintain an even temperature, there may be financial support available to help you with energy bills. Citizens advice have some useful information on resources if you are struggling to pay your energy bills.
GoCompare have an Energy Cost Calculator which can be used to find out how much something costs to run. Use the calculator linked below to pick the appliances you want to compare and select how long they’ll be in use for.
If you are on benefits and have three or more children or a medical condition that requires a lot of extra water, then you can apply for your water bill to be capped. You can apply for WaterSure by filling out a form from your water company.
Prescription costs
For information on paying for your prescriptions, identifying whether you are entitled to free prescriptions and annual prescription certificates.
It is possible to buy a prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) from the NHS which may make your prescriptions cheaper.
Mental health
If you would like to find help or discuss concerns you have about a friend or family member, there are a number of organisations you can contact:
- Samaritans: 116 123 (24 hours a day, free of charge), [email protected]
- Mind Infoline: 0300 123 3393 or text 86463 (9am-6pm Monday to Friday)
- Rethink Mental Illness Advice Line: www.rethink.org, provides expert advice and information to people with mental health problems and those who care for them, and has free support groups you can join
- Saneline: 0300 304 7000 (6pm-11pm)
- C.A.L.M: www.thecalmzone.net, Campaign Against Living Miserably
- Our online community for people who want to discuss Raynaud’s and/or Scleroderma
Students
Disability Rights detail your rights as a student and what you can ask for, depending upon your symptoms.