Benefit plans for severely disabled people in Guernsey

Proposals to improve the benefits offered to carers and severely disabled people on the island will be put to the States of Guernsey.

The Social Security Department has proposed changes to the assessments for Attendance Allowance, costing the States about £90,000 per year.

The changes were proposed after concerns that some people were unable to meet criteria for the allowance.

Further help for carers would also be provided under the proposed changes.

If the proposals are agreed to, the cap on income for full-time carers would be removed.

This would allow more people who care for a family member or partner to benefit.

The Social Security Department report also recommends providing free prescriptions to anyone receiving Attendance Allowance.

The plans will be debated by the States of Guernsey in its October meeting, which starts on 26 October.