Trying to help a friend who is supporting 2 young men whose mother has just died

no.1swimmum

I apologise if this is in the wrong area of the forum.
I have come on here to seek some help for a friend who is supporting two boys (aged 25 and 17) whose mother has just died, and whose father passed away some years ago, and who have no other close family, but are being supported by their pastor and church family.

I have advised her to help them with forms regarding help for funeral costs, but have no idea what else they may be entitled to, other than carers allowance they maybe able to claim (backdated) as they cared for their mother who had cancer, they had carers come in during the day but where her sole carers during the night, turning her, toileting etc.

Is there anything else they could claim for - the mother worked for NHS for many years, then became a school nurse but had to give up work as her illness progressed. They live in a 2 bedroom council house and I believe that the eldest sons name is also on the tenancy. The youngest son is about to start university in September. I can find out any further information that may be needed.

Many thanks for any help received they will be so grateful.

Darksparkle

What does the 25 year old do? Is he working?

What is the 17 year old currently doing? Still in school?

dippy3103

Depending on the eldest sons income they may be able to claim housing benefit. Does he work?

no.1swimmum

Thanks for your responses, I understand that the eldest works part time as he was helping with caring for his Mum, but doesn't earn a lot, he has already said he will look for a full time job.

The youngest is just sitting his A levels, they have been in touch with the school to advise them of the change in circumstances.

Darksparkle

Who is caring for the 17 year old? His brother or your friend?

no.1swimmum

Thank you for your reply.

His brother, but my friend was a good friend of his mother and is supporting the boys as they arrange the funeral, helping to cook for them, shop etc just general support (along with other members of their church) - she is not able to offer any financial support as she is unable to afford to.

Darksparkle

The 25 year old can claim child tax credits for his brother until 31st August as he is going to uni.

If he works at least 16hrs he can also claim working tax credits. From 1st Sept he would need to work at least 30hrs to continue claiming.

How much he'd get would depend on hours and income.

He should also be able to claim child benefit until his brother goes to uni.

dippy3103

The eldest son could apply for housing benefit to assist with the rent.
The younger lad will be able to apply for the usual student finance when he goes to uni.

xylophone

Did their late mother have a pension?
If so, is there any chance of a dependant's pension for the 17 year old?

no.1swimmum

Thank you so much I have passed this on, my friend said that the eldest son mention about bedroom tax, they live in a 2 bedroom property, mother had one room and the boys shared the other, but with the youngest son going to uni he is worried they may have to move to a 1 bedroom flat.

no.1swimmum

Thank you Xylophone, she had a pension, that she contributed to, will get them to contact them and see if they can claim this.