Mind and CPAG proudly announce the first edition of the Mental Health and Benefits Handbook thanks to the support of Fusion 21, Riverside and the Northwick Trust.
This brand new handbook is a comprehensive guide to benefits for people living with mental health problems. It provides practical advice and guidance for the different stages of benefit claims and health assessments and the problems that might be encountered during the process. We have asked people with lived experience of mental health problems and the benefits system to share their insights, and we have used this experience to help inform our guidance and examples.
The handbook includes an overview of various mental health symptoms and gives guidance about how and when to ask about them. It includes information about giving good advice and support to people struggling with their mental health.
It is also helpful for carers, families and professionals who may be helping someone with a mental health problem apply for benefits. Looking at the steps that can be taken, and the legal levers that are available to help support and navigate clients through the complex social security system. The handbook will include an overview and descriptions of various mental health conditions as well as provide recommendations and tips for surmounting some of the difficulties that can be encountered when claimants are applying for benefits. Covering Universal credit and benefits for ill health through to challenging decisions, safeguarding, appointees, reasonable adjustments and recognition of complex needs.
Contents include:
- An overview of Mental health and benefits
- Giving advice
- Employment and support allowance
- Universal credit
- Pension credit
- Housing benefit
- Personal independence payment
- Adult disability allowance
- Disability living allowance
- Child disability allowance
- Attendance allowance
- Supporting evidence
- Assessments
- Work, work-related requirements and sanctions
- In education, hospital, a care home or prison
- Getting a decision changed
- Support, escalation and third parties
The online handbook will be updated regularly to reflect any changes and to make sure that you have the latest information you need to understand your rights.