New DWP benefit rules to help more people nearing end of life access support faster

dailyrecord.co.uk:

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.

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 claimIf 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