Advice and information
DISC runs a free and confidential advice and information service that covers all aspects of living with a disability or long term health problem.
Advice officers can give advice over the phone or they can make an appointment to see you at our office. If we cannot help, we will do our best to find someone who can.
The Service can also take your case up with the appropriate authority, such as the DWP, or can help you do this yourself - the choice is yours.
All enquiries will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Here are some of the areas we can help with...
- Benefits
- Money problems
- Housing
- Transport and mobility
- Health services
- Services available in the home
- Leisure activities
- Employment and training
Can I get Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?
If you are under 65 and have either physical or mental health disabilities and have mobility or care needs, you may be eligible. Ring the helpline for a form on 0800 88 22 00 and then contact us for help completing the form. If you are over 65 claim Attendance Allowance. You can claim DLA/AA regardless of your financial means.
Can I get Employment Support Allowance (ESA)?
If your income is sufficiently low or you’ve paid enough NI contributions, you have either physical or mental health conditions, and consider you are not fit for work, ring the freephone number 0800 055 6347 and make an application. You will probably have to attend a medical some three months later before a decision is made but will be paid the basic rate in the meantime provided you supply medical certificates.
Can I get Income Support?
If your income is sufficiently low, you can claim IS if you are a single parent with a child under 7, or if you are looking after somebody who receives Attendance Allowance or at least the middle rate of DLA care. Ring 0800 055 6347 to make an initial claim.
Can I get Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)?
If your income is sufficiently low or you’ve paid enough NI contributions, and want to work and feel able to do so, ring 0800 055 6347 and make the claim. Remember that you will be expected to sign on every two weeks and demonstrate that you are “actively seeking work.”
Can I get Pension Credit?
If you are over 60 you may be eligible for Pension Credit if your income is sufficiently low or have a pension entitlement above the basic state pension. Ring the freephone number 0800 99 1234 to make the initial claim.
Appeal rights
Remember that you are entitled to appeal most DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) decisions provided you do so within one month of the date of decision. We can advise you on the appeal process and can attend tribunals with you as your tribunal representative provided we think you have a case. Ring our advice line number 020 7387 1466 for further information.
