Universal Credit is the main means tested benefit for working age adults. It rolls together six older benefits and includes elements for housing, children, and disability/health. For supported living residents, the housing element is usually paid as Housing Benefit instead (see below).
PIP is paid to people aged 16+ with long term physical or mental health conditions that affect daily living or mobility. It has two parts (Daily Living and Mobility), each at standard or enhanced rate, and is not means tested. We support residents with PIP applications, reviews, and mandatory reconsiderations.
ESA is for people unable to work because of illness or disability. New claims have largely moved to Universal Credit, but some residents may still be on contributory ESA (sometimes called New Style ESA). The Work Capability Assessment determines whether someone is placed in the Limited Capability for Work group or the Limited Capability for Work and Work Related Activity group.
Because our properties are supported housing, residents typically receive Housing Benefit (paid by the local council) rather than the housing element of Universal Credit. This is because supported housing rents include support and intensive housing management charges that Universal Credit does not cover.
If a resident has been detained under qualifying sections of the Mental Health Act, the local authority and NHS have a duty to provide free aftercare. This often covers the support element of a placement and means no personal financial contribution toward that support.
Residents may be entitled to Council Tax Reduction or a full exemption, depending on the property type and their personal circumstances. We can help residents apply.
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