pensioner with terminal illness

roddycherub

hello, I was wondering if someone would be helpful to point me in the right direction as I am a little confused at the moment.

I currently rent a small room, but will have to vacate in January as the landlord is selling.

I have been working since 1959, mostly in low paid jobs, but I have continued even into my late 60s as I like to be active. Recently I had to give up work. Last week, I got some bad news. I have a terminal illness and Im finding it very difficult to get out of the house now.

I am in receipt on a pension of £161 per week (£40 of it is a private pension) and I have savings under £5,000. I have no other income or debts or assets. I have no dependents. I am single.

Am I entitled to Housing benefit or any other benefits? Is the a calculator I can find out what I am entitled to? Someone mentioned that I may put myself forward for council or social housing. My immediate concern is having a roof come january.

Any advice would be really helpful at this difficult time.

ps I know it doesnt make any difference but apart from my pension I have never received any other benefit my whole working life so I have no idea where to start my enquiry.

amus

Hi,

Sorry to hear of your situation, you should be entitled to Housing Benefit. Your best bet is to get in touch with your local authority to see what you are entitled to given your circumstances.

Whiteknight

You could see if you could claim Attendance Allowance and Pension Credit, Sorry but I'm assuming your male, single and over 65.

Mojisola

Sorry to hear your news. If you have contact with Macmillan nurses, ask them about helping you apply for benefits. If not, ask AgeUK for an advisor to help you. You may be entitled to Attendance Allowance as well as other benefits.

roddycherub

Whiteknight wrote: »

You could see if you could claim Attendance Allowance and Pension Credit, Sorry but I'm assuming your male, single and over 65.

thanks. 70 next birthday. will look into this and the other replies.

[Deleted User]

claim AA under special rules,you should also get full HB and full council tax benefits looking at your current income if you apply for and get AA

suelees1

Roddy you really must present as homeless at the local housing office. From what you say they will have a duty to rehouse you. Please don't let them fob you off with simply accepting your application, they must treat treat this under homelessness legislation (you are potentially homeless).

Ring Shelter on Monday before you even approach the LA as it's much better to be forearmed with the correct info

http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice