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Tips for living with MS - making the most of benefits

It can sometimes appear that the benefits system exists to make life difficult, rather then helping you to access the resources to which you are entitled! Don't despair. With persistence and patience, you will find your way through the maze:

  • Find out what you're entitled to and claim it. Don't feel embarrassed about claiming and never feel that you are being a 'scrounger'
  • Ask for help in filling in forms - there is a definite knack to them that only comes with experience! Make use of your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). Their staff can be incredibly helpful in terms of completing the mass of paperwork, much of which is badly designed and confusing. The MS Society and other organisations can also provide useful information and guidance
  • When you fill in a benefit form, describe your worst days even if you are having a good spell
  • MS is often 'invisible', ie not obvious to others, so don't give up if somebody in authority doesn't believe that you need help. Keep fighting for your rights
  • If you have someone you depend on for help, make sure they also have access to the support they need
  • Remember that Councils offer grants to assist people with disabilities to make adaptations to their home
  • If you are unable to go out unaided, you may be entitled to free prescriptions
  • Don't be afraid of benefit tribunals. They exist to prevent fraud, not to prevent you from obtaining benefits
  • The Direct Payments Scheme gives you control of the money allocated for your care. This can lead to a flexible relationship with a team of personal assistants and allow you to retain your independence. Phone your local council and ask to be put through to the Social Services help line
  • Remember that you have paid your share in taxes and National Insurance contributions and now you are simply getting some of your money back!

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