Fuel, health and disability

Fuel bills and other costs

Primarily directed at older people, grants can be provided for heating and insulation. A cold weather payment of ?8.50 is available in weeks when the weather is especially cold. Winter fuel payments of around ?200 can also be made to those over 60.

Help with health costs

Most treatment under the NHS is free, but some services such as eye tests and prescriptions have to be paid for. If you receive income support, you will get free sight tests, prescriptions, dental treatment, travel costs to hospital and help towards glasses.

Incapacity benefit

If you're employed, your employer will pay you statutory sick pay. Different employers pay this for different lengths of time, and it will be stated in your contract when you start work at a company. If this ceases or you aren't working you could qualify for incapacity benefit.

Incapacity benefit is paid at a different rate depending on how long you are away from work - you receive less if you are only away for a short time.

Benefits for the disabled

From April 2001, severely disabled people who get the highest rate of Disabled Living Allowance for care will usually be able to get more Income Support. This is part of the new Disability Income Guarantee.