AKU Society

AKU is a debilitating disease, and as much of the current treatment involves joint replacement surgery, can leave patients immobile and needing care.This may mean that you have to give up work earlier in life. If you are worried about the financial implications of this (how to care for your family, or for your retirement) then there is help available. This page will list where to find that help, with useful information and links to official sites.

Financial Support

There is help available and you should contact the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) to see if you are entitled to any benefits, these include, carers allowance, disability living allowance and attendance allowance. Log onto www.dwp.gov.uk .

If you have any problems, with receiving your benefits check this leaflet from the Citizen's Advice Bureau: My benefits have stopped.

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Fare Reimbursement

If you receive certain benefits, you may be able claim admission, discharge and outpatient fares for public transport for the patient and one adult. You will need to show proof of receiving benefits within three months of your appointment or admission. Talk to the transport office/dept of your hospital for advice.

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Discount Rail Tickets

The disabled person rail card allows you to buy discounted rail tickets. If another adult is travelling with you they can also travel at a discounted fare. The card currently costs £18.00 and is valid for 12months. £48.00 for three years.  The list of qualifying criteria can be found on www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk. 

Please always check when purchasing tickets however, as sometimes this does not apply if travelling in peak times.

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Disability Living Allowance

There is a benefit provided to those under the age of 65 with a long term health problem which affects your everyday activities. It is not means tested and not affected by any other benefits. It is split into mobility and personal care and each is assessed separately with a different rate of allowance for each.

There is a lengthy form to complete followed by a doctor’s visit to your house. The amount awarded can be up to several hundred pounds paid every four weeks. It is tax free.

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Motability Scheme

This is a means of purchasing a brand new car without the worry of servicing, tax, insurance etc. Applications can be processed through accredited dealerships. Once approved, the car is paid for using your Disabled Living Allowance (higher rate of mobility care). Check out the scheme at www.motability.co.uk.

You can make additional contributions but must receive the higher rate of DLA. A range of powered wheelchairs and scooters are also available through the Motability Scheme through route2mobility.

 

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If you want more information on financial support, please get in touch with our Patient Liaison, Duncan Batty at duncan@akusociety.org. Duncan is an AKU patients who has had experience with most of the above scheme and is happy to help out.