Why Rod Stewart stepped in to pay for a child's autism diagnosis
The musician stepped in after the Daily Record revealed Scottish boy Iain Gregori had waited years for a diagnosis, despite his father Michael being told repeatedly he is autistic.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar criticised the Scottish Government for the delays, stating they should be 'ashamed'.
However, First Minister John Swinney responded that support is available without an official diagnosis and highlighted government efforts to improve mental health services.
Stewart's intervention sparked a debate in Parliament about the adequacy of autism support within the NHS and reliance on private solutions.
Ministers should 'hang heads in shame' as Rod Stewart pays for child's diagnosis
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DWP payment worth up to £441 if you can provide seven things
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Independent Age, a charity, has produced a factsheet to guide new claimants through the application process, along with seven top tips for completing the form. According to the most recent DWP figures, nearly 1.7 million people across Great Britain were claiming the benefit in August 2024, including 150,000 residing in Scotland. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here However, those over State Pension age living in Scotland can no longer make a new claim for Attendance Allowance and must instead apply for the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP). This devolved payment follows similar eligibility and payment rates as its DWP equivalent - more information can be found on reports the Daily Record. It's crucial to note that Attendance Allowance and PADP are not means-tested, so unlike Pension Credit, any income from retirement earnings or savings won't be considered. Article continues below Top tips for completing Attendance Allowance application form Independent Age advises: "The decision maker will use your claim form to work out whether you qualify for Attendance Allowance, so it's important to give as much detail as possible." They recommend anyone completing the form should: Explain how your condition affects your day-to-day life and what personal tasks you have difficulties with Answer all the questions if you can and give examples Include the time it takes you to carry out specific tasks and how much help you need with them, even if there's no one to help you Explain how your needs change and how bad your difficulties can be if some days are better than others Mention any things you avoid doing because they're difficult for you – for example, if it's difficult bending and reaching to put on and take off socks, even while you're sitting down Explain what happens when you don't receive the care you need, especially if this has left you at risk of falls or struggling to manage Send supporting information if you're able to - for example, from your carer, GP or consultant. Additional help and support can be found on the Independent Age website here or by telephoning them on 0800 319 6789. Here's a quick overview of the benefit to help you determine if you - or a relative - should submit a claim. What is Attendance Allowance? Attendance Allowance (and PADP) assists with additional costs if you have a disability, physical or mental health condition, or illness serious enough that it makes it difficult for you to care for yourself - it doesn't cover mobility requirements. You don't need to have someone looking after you to submit a claim. Who can apply? You should submit an application for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and require help or supervision during the day or at periods throughout the night - even if you don't currently receive that assistance. This could include: Assistance with your personal care - for instance getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering and using the toilet. Support to remain safe You should consider applying if you struggle with personal tasks, such as those that take a long time, cause pain or require physical assistance. Attendance Allowance isn't solely for individuals with a physical disability or illness. It's also worth claiming if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night due to:. a mental health condition. learning difficulties. a sensory condition - such as being deaf or visually impaired. Main disabling conditions for attendance allowance The main disabling conditions for Attendance Allowance are sourced from information recorded on the DWP's computer system. The DWP states that when more than one condition is present, the primary disabling condition is reported. It's crucial to understand that this list isn't a checklist for claiming Attendance Allowance, but rather it's intended to provide insight into the types of conditions being supported. 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It is also tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap, meaning no money will be deducted from any other benefits. Will Attendance Allowance impact my State Pension? No, it won't affect your State Pension and you can still claim it even if you're working and earning money. How does Attendance Allowance influence other benefits? Your other benefits might increase if you receive Attendance Allowance, these include:. Additional Pension Credit Housing Benefit Reduction Council Tax Reduction How do I submit a claim? A lengthy claim form must be completed when applying for Attendance Allowance. Although it may seem intimidating initially, assistance is available from your local Citizens Advice, so don't let the form deter you from applying. If you'd rather handle it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to complete your claim form here. Comprehensive details on how to obtain the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the website here. What occurs if I am nearing State Pension age? If you're considering applying for Attendance Allowance upon reaching State Pension age, it might be more beneficial to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) immediately as it could potentially provide a higher amount. Who is ineligible for Attendance Allowance? Those residing in Scotland cannot claim Attendance Allowance; instead, they should apply for the Pension Age Disability Payment - further information can be found here. You won't qualify for Attendance Allowance if you're already receiving PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to cover your care costs. If you attempt to apply for Attendance Allowance while on DLA, the DWP will typically reassess your DLA award instead. You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award expires, provided you still meet the eligibility criteria. If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can then apply for Attendance Allowance. More information about Attendance Allowance can be found on the website here. Article continues below
