Glasgow residents warned as change to key benefit made
Scots worried about changes to a benefit worth up to £441 a month have been urged to seek support as a new system rolls out.
Advice Direct Scotland said households should not be concerned by the switch from Attendance Allowance (AA) to the Pension Age Disability Payment, now being delivered by Social Security Scotland.
READ MORE: DWP benefits and pensions changes May Bank holiday 2025
Previously paid by the Department for Work and Pensions, AA aims to support people over State Pension age with a disability or health condition.
The benefit is now fully managed by the Scottish Government. Applications for the new payment are open across Scotland, following pilot schemes in 18 council areas since last October.
Currently, more than 160,000 people who receive Attendance Allowance are being moved to the new benefit.
Advice Direct Scotland is reminding recipients that they should not experience any disruption in payments, which range from £295 to £441, and encouraging older people with a long-term health condition to check if they are eligible.
READ MORE: New benefit for Scottish pensioners launched - what you need to know
The leading charity, which handles more than 900,000 inquiries a year, can assist with applications and claims.
The Pension Age Disability Payment 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.
This month, the benefit was rolled out to a further 14 areas, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dumfries and Galloway, East Renfrewshire, North and South Lanarkshire, and the Scottish Borders.
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.
Rebecca Fagan, benefit and welfare information officer at Advice Direct Scotland, 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.
'The Pension Age Disability Payment 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.'
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