A new benefit designed to support disabled pensioners has been launched in Argyll and Bute as part of a pilot scheme.
The Pension Age Disability Payment is now available to state pension age residents who are disabled, have a long-term health condition, or are terminally ill. Applications opened on October 21, offering between £290 and £434 per month to successful applicants.
The benefit is also being piloted in Aberdeen, Orkney, Shetland, and the Highlands, with a nationwide rollout planned for completion by spring next year. It will eventually replace Attendance Allowance, currently administered by the UK Government, with existing claimants being transferred to Social Security Scotland by early 2025.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville welcomed the benefit’s launch, noting that the cost of living crisis makes it crucial for older disabled people in Scotland to receive all the financial help they are entitled to. She emphasised that the new benefit had been shaped by listening to the experiences of older disabled individuals, including simplifying the process of nominating someone to support them in their dealings with Social Security Scotland.
“I encourage anyone who believes they may be eligible to apply. It’s vital that they get the financial support they need to maintain their independence, stay safe, and live with the dignity and respect everyone deserves in later life,” Somerville said.
Debbie Horne, Scotland’s policy and public affairs manager at Independent Age, welcomed the changes, highlighting that providing dignity and respect during the application process is essential. She also praised the fast-track process for those diagnosed with terminal illnesses, which aims to speed up access to support.
Tommy Campbell of the Scottish Pensioners’ Forum voiced his support for the benefit, noting that many older people with conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, and arthritis would greatly benefit from the financial assistance. He expressed hope that the pilot scheme’s success will lead to positive outcomes when it is rolled out more widely across Scotland.
