Caithness pensioners urged to act as £441 benefit switches to new system

Caithness pensioners worried about changes to a key benefit worth up to £441 a month have been urged to seek support as a new system rolls out.

National advice agency Advice Direct Scotland (ADS) said households should not be concerned by the switch from Attendance Allowance to Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP), now being delivered by Social Security Scotland.

Previously paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Attendance Allowance supports people over state pension age with a disability or health condition.

The benefit is now fully managed by the Scottish Government as part of the wider devolution of social security powers. Applications for the new payment are open across Scotland, following pilot schemes in 18 council areas since last October.

More than 160,000 people currently receiving Attendance Allowance are being moved to the new benefit.

ADS reminds recipients that they should not experience any disruption in payments, which range from £295 to £441, and encourages older people with a long-term health condition to check if they are eligible.

The leading charity, which handles more than 900,000 inquiries a year, can assist with applications and claims.

Rebecca Fagan, ADS benefit and welfare information officer, said: “This is essentially a rebranding of an existing benefit, in this case, Attendance Allowance. While the name and handling are changing, the support remains the same.

“We understand that these changes can cause concern for some people who fear they may lose out.

“It’s crucial that older people who are disabled, terminally ill, or have care needs continue to receive the financial support necessary to maintain their well-being, safety, and dignity.

“PADP will be a vital source of assistance for those with long-term health conditions.

“With the rising cost of living and increasing bills, it’s more important than ever that older people access all available financial aid.

“If you're uncertain about your eligibility or need help with an application, our team at advice.scot is here to offer free, confidential support.”

PADP is available to people of state pension age who need help with personal care or supervision to stay safe. It is also available to pensioners who are terminally ill.

It is the 15th benefit now managed by the Scottish Government through Social Security Scotland. People currently receiving Attendance Allowance will not need to take any action, as the transfer to the new payment will happen automatically in stages throughout 2025.

Scots can check their eligibility and apply for PADP at: www.mygov.scot/pension-age-disability-payment/applicants

The advice.scot team can be reached at 0808 800 9060, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, or through their website at www.advice.scot

Additionally, ADS provides an online benefits calculator to help people assess their entitlement to both devolved and reserved benefits.

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