Money Matters
Money, as with all people, is a big issue for disabled people. Poverty among disabled people is a common problem, but many experts feel it is seriously underestimated.
A report for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation suggests that disabled people on benefits are £800 a month short of being able to fund an acceptable quality of life. Disabled workers on minimum wages are also significantly short of the income required for them to have a life comparable to that of non-disabled people.
Official statistics indicate 30 per cent of disabled people are in poverty but these are based on income. Living as a disabled person can sometimes be very expensive: we may need specialist equipment, more assistance to maintain our way of life adaptations to our homes etc.
Travel is sometimes difficult as public transport may not be accessible in some areas of the country or not available at all. So, we have to make arrangements for alternative modes of travel which are usually more expensive.
We all need to look at the options available to us: work or benefits may seem to be the only choice, but it is sometimes possible to have both. Benefits and employment are not mutually exclusive: help can be available, even if you are working. For many, deriving income for a decent standard of living may involve incorporating benefits with a wage.
The information we have given is only a guide and whilst Disability Wales makes every effort to ensure accuracy you should always seek information that is more comprehensive.
There are lots of agencies who can help you find out what benefits you are entitled to. They can also help with filling in complicated benefit forms, as it can be a bewildering experience completing these forms.
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- Benefits and disability
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