DWP £5644 Support Scheme: Navigating financial support systems in the UK can feel like a daunting task, especially for older adults or carers unfamiliar with what help is available. Fortunately, if you’re over the State Pension age and facing challenges with daily living due to a health condition, you may qualify for significant financial support through the DWP £5,644 Support Scheme, officially known as Attendance Allowance.
This extensive guide breaks down what Attendance Allowance is, how much you could receive, who qualifies, how to apply, and how it can enhance your quality of life. Whether you’re an older adult looking for some help or a caregiver researching options for a loved one, this article offers expert-level clarity with easy-to-follow steps.
DWP £5,644 Support Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Support Name | Attendance Allowance |
| Administered by | Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) |
| Maximum Annual Benefit | £5,644.60 |
| Weekly Rates | £72.65 (Lower Rate), £108.55 (Higher Rate) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Age 66+, need help with personal care or supervision due to a disability or illness |
| Application Process | Submit a paper form by post (call 0800 731 0122 to request) |
| Impact on Other Benefits | Does not reduce your other benefits; may increase entitlements like Pension Credit or Housing Benefit |
| Official Information | gov.uk/attendance-allowance |
The DWP £5,644 Attendance Allowance is more than just a financial payment—it’s a recognition that aging or managing illness doesn’t have to mean financial hardship. It gives older adults the dignity and flexibility to live safely, comfortably, and independently.
With no impact on other benefits and the potential to unlock even more support, it’s one of the most powerful resources available for the UK’s older population and their carers. Don’t wait—check your eligibility and apply today. It could change your life or the life of someone you love.
What Is Attendance Allowance and Why Does It Matter?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit offered by the UK government through the DWP. It is designed for older individuals—those aged 66 and over—who need help with personal care or require supervision to stay safe due to a physical or mental health condition. Unlike many other support schemes, your savings or income level do not affect your eligibility.
This benefit can play a life-changing role for recipients, providing much-needed financial relief and helping cover expenses that improve safety, dignity, and comfort. It also often acts as a gateway to other entitlements, including Pension Credit, Carer’s Allowance, and housing-related support.
Whether you need help because of arthritis, dementia, impaired vision, or another health issue, this allowance is meant to make daily life easier—and a bit more affordable.
Who Qualifies for Attendance Allowance?
You may qualify for Attendance Allowance if:
- You are 66 years or older (State Pension age or above)
- You have a disability, long-term illness, or mental health condition
- You need help with daily personal care, such as dressing, washing, eating, using the toilet, or taking medication
- You need supervision to avoid risk (e.g., falls, confusion, wandering)
- You have needed help for at least six months
- You live in Great Britain and have been present in the UK for at least 2 of the past 3 years
If you are terminally ill, you can claim under the Special Rules, bypassing the 6-month waiting period and receiving the higher rate automatically.
Note: You cannot claim Attendance Allowance if you currently receive:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Adult Disability Payment (for those in Scotland)
How Much Can You Receive?
Attendance Allowance is paid at two weekly rates:
Lower Rate – £72.65 per week
For those who need frequent help or supervision during either the day or night.
Higher Rate – £108.55 per week
For individuals who need help both day and night, or for people with a terminal illness.
These payments add up to either £3,777.80 or £5,644.60 annually, and they are paid every four weeks directly into your bank account.
You can use the funds however you see fit—many recipients choose to pay for help at home, transport to appointments, home safety modifications, or even hire a part-time carer.
Detailed Guide to Apply for Attendance Allowance
- Request the Form:
- Call the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122 to request a printed application form.
- Alternatively, download the form online at gov.uk.
- Fill Out the Form Carefully: Take your time to describe how your condition affects your daily life. Tips,
- Be thorough and honest
- Include real-life examples (e.g., “I fall getting in and out of the shower without support.”)
- Explain how often you need help
- Use the Additional Information section to describe less obvious needs, like emotional supervision or cognitive struggles
📝 Consider keeping a daily diary for a week to help explain your needs accurately.
- Include Medical Evidence (Optional but Helpful): Attach any supporting documentation,
- GP or hospital letters
- Medication lists
- Physiotherapy reports
- This can help avoid delays and strengthen your case.
- Send the Form by Post: Use the Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance address on the form. No stamp or postcode required.
- Wait for a Decision:
- Most decisions take 6 to 8 weeks, though complex cases may take longer.
- You may be contacted for additional info or invited to a medical assessment.
If approved, payments are backdated to the date your application was received.
Real-Life Example: Eileen’s Journey
Eileen, aged 79, lives independently in Kent and has arthritis and mild dementia. Though she doesn’t have a full-time carer, her daughter visits twice a week to help with cooking and errands.
Eileen applied for Attendance Allowance with support from her local Age UK branch. She was awarded the lower rate of £72.65 per week and now uses the money to:
- Pay for a part-time cleaner
- Get regular grocery deliveries
- Access community transport to her GP
Not only did this improve her quality of life, but she also became eligible for a Council Tax Reduction and a Warm Home Discount.
What Can the Payment Be Used For?
There are no restrictions on how you use Attendance Allowance. You may choose to:
- Hire a home carer or personal assistant
- Pay for cleaning or meal services
- Buy mobility aids (walking frame, stairlift, etc.)
- Cover taxi fares to hospital appointments
- Install home safety modifications (grab rails, non-slip mats)
The benefit is about giving you freedom and dignity to live comfortably.
How Attendance Allowance Helps Carers Too
If someone spends 35 hours or more a week caring for you, they may qualify for Carer’s Allowance, currently £81.90/week.
Carers must:
- Be aged 16 or older
- Not earn more than £139 per week (after tax and expenses)
- Not be in full-time education
Carer’s Allowance is separate but often goes hand-in-hand with Attendance Allowance and helps relieve financial pressure on unpaid caregivers.
Additional Benefits You May Be Entitled To
Receiving Attendance Allowance can increase your eligibility for:
- Pension Credit (extra weekly income for low-income pensioners)
- Housing Benefit (support with rent)
- Council Tax Reduction
- Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments
💡 Speak with Citizens Advice or your local council for a full benefits check.
FAQs On DWP £5644 Support Scheme
Q1: Can I apply even if I live in a care home?
A: Yes, but only if you pay for your care yourself. If the local authority pays for your care, you’re not eligible.
Q2: Can I apply online?
A: No. The application is paper-based only. You must submit the physical form.
Q3: Is the payment taxable?
A: No. Attendance Allowance is 100% tax-free.
Q4: Will it reduce my State Pension?
A: No. Attendance Allowance does not affect your State Pension or other contributory benefits.
Q5: What happens if I’m rejected?
A: You can ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration within one month, and if needed, appeal to a Social Security Tribunal.
