Argyll and Bute pension pilot now supports 2,500 people

More than 2,500 elderly people across Argyll and Bute are getting financial support from a new disability payment first piloted in the region.
The Pension Age Disability Payment replaces Attendance Allowance across Scotland and is designed for people of state pension age with care needs because of a disability, long-term health condition or terminal illness.
It is worth between £295 and £441 a month depending on the needs of the person who gets it.
The payment was piloted in Argyll and Bute in October last year and has now been rolled out across the country.
The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said: “Pension Age Disability Payment is a vital means of support for older people in Scotland.
It is crucial that older people who are disabled, terminally ill or have a long-term health condition and have care needs get the money they need to help them look after themselves, stay safe in their homes and live with dignity.”
She added: “I’m pleased that Pension Age Disability Payment is already supporting so many people and I would encourage anyone who thinks they could be eligible to apply.”
You can apply for Pension Age Disability Payment online, over the phone, by post or in person. An in-person appointment with one of Social Security Scotland’s local client advisers can be arranged by calling free on 0800 182 2222.
People who have been diagnosed as terminally ill can apply for Pension Age Disability Payment via a fast-tracked application process under the Special Rules for Terminal Illness.
Those who currently receive Attendance Allowance should have received a letter from Social Security Scotland telling them their benefit is moving to Pension Age Disability Payment.
You can go online for further information at the website mygov.scot and use the search facility for pensions, 24 hours a day.