Frequently asked questions

Finding a trustworthy cleaner or domestic help service can be difficult – whilst we can’t recommend or endorse any company or individual, we’ve put together some suggestions in our AUKW Domestic Help Guide to help you understand what type of help you need and the options available so you can make an informed choice.

Local care agencies may also offer domestic help The Care Quality Commission has a database of registered care agencies and also provides written reports on their quality and standards: https://www.cqc.org.uk/.  

If someone has recently been discharged from hospital they may be eligible for the Age UK Bath & North East Somerset Home from Hospital service : Tel: 01225 466135  which is provided by them in the Wiltshire area. This short-term support helps practically and emotionally to build confidence and connect someone to groups and services within the local community, including domestic help

If someone is having difficulty with domestic tasks because of their health, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living then they could be eligible for other help. There is a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team to get some aids and equipment fitted free of charge or other support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s guide Getting help at home (IG23).  To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500 

Resources

Age UK Wiltshire have a ‘Shopping Options guide’ which includes some options to try – such as local grocery delivery companies, meals on wheels and care agency services.

Age UK Wiltshire have our own Wellbeing Checks with Meals service which can be contacted on 01793 279606 or wellbeingcheckswithmeals@ageukwiltshire.org.uk.  We also collate a list of local Meals delivery services. 

If someone has recently been discharged from hospital they may be eligible for the Age UK Bath & North East Somerset Home from Hospital service : Tel: 01225 466135  which is provided by them in the Wiltshire area. This short-term support helps practically and emotionally to build confidence and connect someone to groups and services within the local community, which can include shopping.

If someone is having difficulty with shopping or preparing meals because of their health, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living then they could be eligible for other help. There is a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team to get some aids and equipment fitted free of charge or other support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s guide Getting help at home (IG23).  To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500 

Different Age UK’s provide different services and Age UK Wiltshire do not provide a traders list and are not able to recommend companies or individuals. We have suggestions and links relating to this on our Finding a Tradesperson page, including our AUKW Guide to choosing a reputable tradesperson, which suggests questions to ask and things to consider, to help you make informed choices when choosing trades and services. 

If someone is having difficulty with jobs around the house that they used to do themselves because of their health, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living, then they could be eligible for other help. There is a benefit called 'Attendance Allowance' to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team for extra support e.g. Adaptations costing £1,000 or less must be provided free of charge by the local authority if they are as agreed as meeting eligible needs. You can read more about these in Age UK’s info guide Getting help at home (IG23). To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500   

Different Age UK’s provide different services, and unfortunately Age UK Wiltshire doesn’t offer a toenail cutting service and we are unable to recommend companies or individuals.

You can ask your GP if you qualify for free NHS podiatry services but if this isn't possible we suggest using someone registered with the College of Podiatrists (https://cop.org.uk/find-a-podiatrist/ tel: 020 7234 8620) or other accredited body. You can also check local parish magazines and ask friends or neighbours for suggestions of local services.   

We collate an information-only list of podiatrists and footcare practitioners below but these are not offered as recommendations.    

If someone is having difficulty with footcare or cutting their nails, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living, then they could be eligible for other help. There is a benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team for extra support e.g. Adaptations costing £1,000 or less must be provided free of charge by the local authority if they are as agreed as meeting eligible needs. You can read more about these in Age UK’s info guide Getting help at home (IG23). To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500

There are a variety of means-tested, non-means-tested benefits and schemes available for older people and Age UK’s info guide More money in your pocket (IG43) summarises these, the criteria and how to apply. Benefits can be complicated and depend on your individual circumstances. We can complete benefits checks and offer benefits advice for people over State Pension age - contact our Information & Advice team for a free benefits check where we look at all of these and other schemes to help save you money.

Means-tested benefits like Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and Council Tax benefit take into account most of your income and a 'deemed' income from any capital you have over £10,000 and compare this to government-set figures for your circumstances to see if you're eligible. There isn't necessarily a set threshold for savings or income; it depends on your individual circumstances. 

If you’re a carer or disabled then you may be eligible for non-means-tested benefits or extra premiums that increase your eligibility for means-tested benefits.

Our AUKW Money MOT explains other schemes to help you save money or increase your income, such as NHS Low income scheme, tax allowances and non-means-tested Council Tax Discounts

See our dedicated Money and Benefits page for more information and ideas. We understand that benefits can be complex and we can give further advice on specific enquiries if needed. 

Attendance Allowance (AA) is a non-means-tested disability benefit for older people from the government to help pay for the extra costs of having long term disability or health problems. Receiving Attendance Allowance can also increase eligibility for the means-tested benefits and could mean someone becomes entitled when they weren’t before. Age UK’s info guide Attendance Allowance (IG49) has more information. The number to request a form is the DWP 0800 731 0122 (requesting the form by phone means it can be backdated to the date of the call).

We’ve produced a AUKW guide to completing Attendance Allowance forms. We can also arrange a free telephone appointment or limited home visit if needed – contact our Information & Advice team to arrange a referral. We may also be able to help with Disability Living Allowance (DLA) forms

Additionally, if someone has difficulties with personal care then they could consider contacting the Local Authority’s adult social care team to request a free care needs assessment. This is an assessment of a person’s ‘eligible needs’ and can help because it provides a report of what the needs are and how these could be met (a care plan) and the cost of meeting the needs (a personal budget amount), which can be a good basis for arranging care and support. Adaptations costing £1,000 or less must be provided free of charge by the local authority if they are as agreed as meeting eligible needs. The local authority may also be able to contribute towards care package fees and larger adaptations, depending on the outcome of a separate financial assessment. If you have an informal carer, like a partner, they can ask for their own Carer's Assessment to get help.  More information is available in Age UK's info guide Getting help at home (IG23)

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500   

Benefits can be complicated to claim and it can be disheartening to be turned down or be told that you’ve been overpaid. You should be notified in writing of the decision (a ‘decision letter’ or ‘overpayment letter’) which tells you what your options are for challenging the decision. Age UK has a factsheet FS74: Challenging Welfare Benefit Decisions with more detail. 

You can ask for written statement of reasons for the decision to help you put a case forward to challenge the decision; sometimes the decision letter uses standard wording that may not relate specifically to your claim or does not include a breakdown of relevant dates. You must usually challenge the decision within one month of the date on the original decision notice so don’t delay! 

Challenging a benefit decision can be complicated and our advisers can sometimes help with challenging benefit decisions, such as helping you to write a mandatory reconsideration letter.

Did you know a successful Attendance Allowance (AA) claim can increase entitlement to means-tested benefits for yourself or someone that cares for you? This is because additional premiums like ‘severe disability premium’ and ‘carer’s premium’ can apply to the benefit calculation to increase entitlement, or mean you become entitled for the first time. You could become entitled to a non-means tested Council Tax Discount or Exemption. 

Age UK's info guide More money in your pocket (IG43) summarises these. Benefits can be complicated and depend on your individual circumstances - contact our Information & Advice team for a free benefits check where we look at all of these and other schemes to help save you money.

The extra money from Attendance Allowance aims to help people maintain their independence and improve the quality of their lives, although the money can be spent as one wishes. If you’re considering arranging or paying for help, services or equipment you can find information about these in our other FAQs. 

If you provide informal care for someone else regularly then you may be eligible for extra financial help as a carer, such as Carer's Allowance, Carer's Premium or a Carer's Council Tax Discount. Usually the person you care for must first be receiving a qualifying disability benefit, such as Attendance Allowance. There is more information in Age UK's info guide Carer's Allowance (IG52). 

Important: If someone is paid Carer's Allowance this can negatively impact the cared-for person’s benefits; we advise that the cared-for person has a benefits check first so they can consider all options. 

Carer's Allowance is worked out differently for people over State Pension age. If you receive a State Pension you cannot normally be paid Carer's Allowance itself because of overlapping benefit rules, but you can still have the carer premium if you meet the other criteria. If you already receive a means-tested benefit then a carer premium can increase your entitlement. If you don’t get a means-tested benefit then premiums can mean you become entitled for the first time (as it increases the income thresholds for being eligible).

Additionally, you may be able to access other support as an informal carer  - for example a free a Carers assessment. There is more information about these in Age UK’s info guide Advice for carers (IG13). There is a local scheme Carer’s Together Wiltshire tel: 01380 710300 and in Swindon there is Swindon Carer’s Centre that offer support for informal carers.

Our AUKW Grants information sheet explains options to consider for grants for unexpected bills, essential household items and white goods. We may be able to support you in applying for a grant or finding out where to access one. 

For boiler replacements or energy efficiency measures Wiltshire Warm & Safe (Tel 0800 038 5722) provide a comprehensive free energy advice service including • Advice on eligibility for various energy grants • Advice on insulation, heating and draft proofing • Advice on understanding your fuel bills, managing fuel debt and switching energy tariffs.

Our AUKW Spread the warmth leaflet has information about local and national grants to help with the cost of keeping warm in winter - in particular we can support with applications for Wiltshire Surviving Winter Grant and complete a free income maximisation check to ensure that you are receiving all the benefits that you are entitled to.

Age UK’s info guide Save Energy Pay Less (IG30) has tips to reduce costs and use energy more efficiently.

The Citizens Advice website has information about the various government cost-of-living schemes available from the government.

A will can ensure that your money, property, possessions and investments (known as your estate) go to the people and causes you care about. There is more information in ‘Age UK’s info guide Wills and estate planning (IG31). The national charity Free Wills Month produce a free downloadable will planner to help you plan your will.

A Power of Attorney is a way of giving someone you trust the legal authority to make decisions for you, if you can’t make them yourself – or if you don’t want to. You can only make one if you have the mental capacity to do so and haven’t been put under any pressure. The person making a power of attorney is known as the ‘donor’, the person(s) appointed to help are known as ‘attorneys’.  There are 2 types and you can opt to make one or both: ‘Property and financial affairs’ and ‘Health and Welfare’. There is more information, including where to get the forms and the registration process and fees in Age UK’s info guide Power of Attorney (IG21). 

We offer a free Legal affairs service - free telephone appointments with a specialist volunteer to help you understand more about the areas of Wills, Power of Attorney and Dealing with an estate. Appointments must be booked in advance. Please note this does not constitute legal advice

If someone is having difficulty with managing their affairs because of their health, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living then they could be eligible for other help. There is a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team to get some aids and equipment fitted free of charge or other support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s guide Getting help at home (IG23).  To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500 

Resources: 

Age UK National manage Age UK products rather than local partners - if you would like to purchase Age UK products /insurance or are an existing Age UK customer, please contact the Age UK products helpdesk. 

For personal alarms and stairlifts, we also have a dedicated impartial information sheet with a list of suppliers and things to consider, including Age UK options - see our FAQ 'I need equipment at home'. 

Age UK Wiltshire are not able to provide debt advice or other legal advice outside the areas of our core topics.

The Citizens Advice website has lots of information, and a dedicated free Consumer helpline: 0808 223 1133.

Resolver is a free online tool for supporting with understanding your rights and making a complaint to various companies and organisations

If you are concerned about a possible scam Age UK’s info guide Avoiding Scams (IG05) has tips and explains the steps to take if you suspect or need to report one. 

Equipment can be purchased, rented or may be provided free through statutory services like your local authority.

One main route to support is contacting the council’s adult social care team to request a free care needs assessment. This is an assessment of a person’s ‘eligible needs’ and can help because it provides a report of what the needs are and how these could be met (a care plan) and the cost of meeting the needs (a personal budget amount), which can be a good basis for arranging care and support. Adaptations costing £1,000 or less must be provided free of charge by the local authority if they are as agreed as meeting eligible needs. The local authority may also be able to contribute towards larger adaptations (‘Disabled Facilities Grant’) or a care package, depending on the outcome of a separate financial assessment. There may be a wait for the assessment so make it clear if help is required more urgently. There is further information in the Age UK info guide Adapting your home (IG17)

If you have an informal carer, like a partner, they can ask for their own Carer's Assessment to get help.  

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500   

Some items of equipment, such as commodes or walking aids can also be requested free on loan from your GP or district nurse. 

For private purchase of disability related aids and equipment, rather than through local authority provision, The Independent Living Centre (ILC) at Semington (https://ilc.org.uk/ Tel: 01380 871007)  provide free independent and impartial advice on equipment and are also the local retail base for Medequip retail (https://www.medequip-uk.com/about/retail tel: 01249 815052) which are one provider of equipment. Other providers are available such as those listed in the Disabled Living Foundation resources: https://livingmadeeasy.org.uk/  0300 999 0004  and local mobility aids shops

If you are on a low income and require essential equipment that statutory funding will not cover, then we could check if there is any grant funding available for your circumstances. Typically this is in the region of up to £400. We can also complete a free benefits check to ensure you are maximising your income. 

Also, there is extra money from the government (which is not means-tested), called Attendance Allowance (IG49), that can help pay for this type of support and other things to help people to stay independent at home. We can help people to apply for this.

Resources:

Personal Alarms/Lifeline providers - Age UK Wiltshire info sheet

Stairlift providers (hire or purchase) - Age UK Wiltshire info sheet

When you no longer need equipment you might like it to go to someone else in need or just want it out of the way. Whilst Age UK Wiltshire can’t take equipment ourselves we have several suggestions:

One main route to arranging support is contacting the council’s adult social care team to request a free care needs assessment. This is an assessment of a person’s ‘eligible needs’ and can help because it provides a report of what the needs are and how these could be met (a care plan) and the cost of meeting the needs (a personal budget amount), which can be a good basis for arranging care and support such as equipment or a care package. Adaptations costing £1,000 or less must be provided free of charge by the local authority if they are as agreed as meeting eligible needs. The local authority may be able to contribute towards a care package or larger adaptations, depending on the outcome of a separate financial assessment. There may be a wait for the assessment so make it clear if help is required more urgently. You can read more about these in Age UK’s info guide Getting help at home (IG23). 

If you have an informal carer, like a partner, they can ask for their own Carer's Assessment to get help. 

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500

Also, there is extra money from the government (which is not means-tested), called Attendance Allowance (IG49), that can help pay for this type of support and other things to help people to stay independent at home. We can help people to apply for this.  

Some people are eligible for some local authority funding towards care costs. A person’s financial contribution towards their care costs is calculated from their individual finances using rules outlined in the Care Act 2014 and most people need to pay something towards their care. If you have more than £23,250 in capital you may need to pay all your care costs as a ‘self funder’. In certain circumstances care costs may be met through NHS Continuing Health Care Funding (NHS CHC) which is not means-tested.  

There is more information about paying for a care package at home in Age UK factsheet Paying for care at home (FS46)

There is more information about paying for residential care homes in Age UK factsheet Finding, choosing and funding a care home (FS29)

For self-funders, the Money Helper Service has a page on self-funding your long term care with other options to consider. It is important to be aware of deprivation of assets rules in case you need local authority funding in the future. 

We understand that arranging and funding care support whether at home or residential care can be complex and we can give further advice on specific enquiries. 

Resources:

One main option, if a caring role is having an impact on a person’s wellbeing and/or affecting their physical or mental health then they can request a free carer’s assessment from the local authority adult social care team. This is specifically for informal carers and can lead to help with the caring role, respite care, aids/equipment and support to complete a carer’s emergency card. The local authority may help fund some of this.

Additionally, you can contact your Local Authority’s adult social care team to request a free care needs assessment for the person you care for which could result in equipment and care to help them at home.   There is more information about these in Age UK’s info guide Advice for carers (IG13).

To request a free care needs or carers assessment contact: 

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111 
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500 

There is a local scheme Carer’s Together Wiltshire tel: 01380 710300 or email enquiries@carerstogetherwiltshire.org.uk and in Swindon there is Swindon Carer’s Centre that offer support for informal carers who complete carer's assessments on behalf of the local authority.

Respite care could also be organised privately through a care agency, day centre or residential home – we can provide lists of these please ask. Occasionally there may also be charity grants available and a good resource for grants search is www.turn2us.org.uk.  

If you provide informal care for someone else regularly then you may be eligible for extra financial help as a carer, such as Carer's Allowance, Carer's Premium or a Carer's Council Tax Discount. Usually the person you care for must first be receiving a qualifying disability benefit, such as Attendance Allowance. There is more information in Age UK's info guide Carer's Allowance (IG52). 

We can complete a free benefits check to ensure a person is claiming everything available to them. Particularly, the cared-for person could be entitled to a non-means-tested disability benefit or the carer may be entitled to extra money for being a carer. This could be extra money to help pay for respite care and other support. Important: If someone is paid Carer's Allowance this can negatively impact the cared-for person’s benefits; we advise that the cared-for person has a benefits check first so they can consider all options. 

Carer's Allowance is worked out differently for people over State Pension age. If you receive a State Pension you cannot normally be paid Carer's Allowance itself because of overlapping benefit rules, but you can still have the carer premium if you meet the other criteria. If you already receive a means-tested benefit then a carer premium can increase your entitlement. If you don’t get a means-tested benefit then premiums can mean you become entitled for the first time (as it increases the income thresholds for being eligible).

We understand that arranging and funding care support for a loved one can be complex and we can give further advice on specific enquiries if needed. 

No-one likes the idea of going into hospital but the majority of us will need to do this at some point in our lives, particularly as we get older. Age UK’s guide Your hospital stay (IG07) is here to help put you at ease during what can be an unsettling time. 

You shouldn’t be sent home from hospital until staff have assessed your immediate needs, any agreed support services are ready to start, and any necessary adaptations or equipment are in place. A family member, friend, carer or your care home should also be told when you’ll be discharged. Some people are eligible for a short term NHS funded package of care, such as reablement care. Support of this type can last for up to 6 weeks and is provided for free. Towards the end of the agreed period, staff reassess your needs to see if you need long-term support. 

In Wiltshire there is a free Home from Hospital service provided by Age UK Bath & North East Somerset (BANES). This short-term support helps practically and emotionally to build your confidence and connect you to groups and services. Tel 01225 466135

In Swindon there is the Safely Home Service provided through Swindon Adult Social care which offers short-term  practical and emotional support to help build confidence and connect people to groups and services. It is aimed at those who do not have the support of family or friends during the first few days/weeks. This service is only available to those who are referred by Swindon Council Adult Social Care or the Great Western Hospital Trust 

The Caring Steps Together programme has been developed to help health and care professionals provide hospital patients, as well as their families and carers, with extra support before and during their onward care journey

If you feel you need some more support at home because of a long-term health condition or disability, then they could be eligible for other help. There is a benefit called 'Attendance Allowance' to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team for extra support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s info guide Getting help at home (IG23). 

To request a free care needs assessment contact: 

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111 

• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500 

Maintaining good health is important to everyone as it can help you to remain independent and active. Age UK’s info guide Healthy living (IG24) has information on age-related health conditions, dealing with health services and tips on staying fit and healthy. 

In the first instance it’s a good idea to discuss your concerns with your GP. You can also explore the other FAQs and our dedicated Organising Care and Support page - there may be other support available such as adult social care assessment, support for carers and disability benefits.

 The following guides may be of interest to boost your physical and mental health: 

Age UK info guide Getting help at home (IG23)   

Age UK info guide Staying steady (IG14)

If you have concerns about your memory, Age UK info guides Living with dementia (IG48) and At home with dementia (IG55) can help and reassure you how to manage this condition. Wiltshire’s Dementia Road Map from Alzheimer's Support Wiltshire has lots of information on local support.

If you have concerns about your overall mental health or wellbeing we have a list of mental health support numbers

Maintaining good health is important to everyone as it can help you to remain independent and active. Age UK’s info guide Healthy living (IG24) has information on age-related health conditions, dealing with health services and tips on staying fit and healthy. 

In the first instance it’s a good idea to discuss your concerns with your GP. You can also explore the other FAQs here - there may be other support available such as adult social care assessment, support for carers and disability benefits.

 The following guides may be of interest to boost your physical and mental health: 

Age UK info guide Getting help at home (IG23)   

Age UK info guide Staying steady (IG14)

A Blue Badge is a concessionary parking scheme for people with significant mobility problems which is available from your local authority. We’ve produced a free AUKW guide to completing Blue Badge forms.

Our local authorities encourage applications online using the links below and therefore we are no longer able to help people apply with paper forms. If you are not able to apply online, or need additional support with a Blue Badge form, please contact your local authority:

• Wiltshire Council:   01225 713 002
• Swindon Borough Council:   01793 445 500

If someone is having difficulty with travel because of their health, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living then they could be eligible for other help. There is a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team to get some aids and equipment fitted free of charge or other support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s guide Getting help at home (IG23).  To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500 

In Wiltshire and Swindon there are Bus Pass and Taxi Vouchers schemes - A concessionary travel scheme for older people and people with significant mobility problems. Taxi vouchers may be available if you cannot make use of your bus pass. Contact your local authority: Wiltshire Council or Swindon Council.

Community Transport and LINK Schemes are local voluntary groups providing transport for people who struggle to get out and about e.g. getting to medical appointments - most towns have a scheme:

Wiltshire Community First  - compile the transport and LINK Schemes across Wiltshire. Note that each scheme has an individual contact number.

Akcess provide 'Steps for You' subsidised community transport in Swindon

Swindon Dial-a-Ride provide community transport to Swindon residents

If someone is having difficulty with travel because of their health, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living then they could be eligible for other help. There is a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team to get some aids and equipment fitted free of charge or other support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s guide Getting help at home (IG23).  To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500   

Resources:

In the driving seat - Age UK info guide

RiDC (Research Institute for Disabled Customers) have several useful guides including: mobility scooters and scooter insurance   and choosing and using an adapted vehicle

Connecting Wiltshire  - Help for planning a journey in Wiltshire by car, bus, train and walking, including bus times and details of bus companies.

Goingcarfree.com    Tel: 023 8055 4100   -a travel awareness campaign delivered by Wessex DriveAbility giving information and advice to people who are giving up driving, to help them get around more easily, using a range of travel choices and options.

Non Emergency Patient Transport to hospital - (NEPTS) for those that require transport to/from hospital and are unable to get there themselves. Eligiblity criteria is set by the government and based on whether someone's medical condition prevents them from travelling by any other means.

NHS volunteer responders (during COVID19) - Patient transport is available via a professional referrer such as GP or health professional.

A local taxi service or ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ service may be an option if you are not eligible for other schemes or cannot use public transport because of your health. Each local authority is responsible for licensing all taxis and private hire vehicles.

Accessible taxis may be available such as Wiltshire Council list of accessible taxis or Swindon Council accessible taxi information

Also see Community Transport schemes above and the individual hospital websites will usually have a 'Find us' or 'Travelling and directions' page.

If someone is having difficulty with travel because of their health, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living then they could be eligible for other help. There is a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team to get some aids and equipment fitted free of charge or other support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s guide Getting help at home (IG23).  To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500   

Disability Rights UK – RADAR keys £5.00 (excl. VAT) with free delivery  Tel:  020 7250 8191

Other places to try: Selected Scope charity shops, Independent Living Centre (Semington) and local town councils may have stocks.

If someone is having difficulty with personal care because of their health, and it’s having an impact on other parts of their daily living then they could be eligible for other help. There is a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team to get some aids and equipment fitted free of charge or other support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s guide Getting help at home (IG23).  To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500   

There are several housing options available for older people and Age UK's info guide Housing Options(IG08) gives an overview, including rented and private purchase sheltered housing, Almshouses and extra care housing. It can also be helpful to talk through your options with family and friends. This guide has a list of questions to help you think about your current home and how well it suits you – both now and for the future. Further information on housing options is also available from Elderly Accommodation Counsel

Sheltered housing is a common type of specialist housing for older people, where residents receive certain lower-level support services (e.g. emergency alarm system, onsite scheme manager for floating support). It is usually in the form of individual flats or bungalows that share some facilities like a laundry room and social room. You can view a comprehensive database of rented and leasehold sheltered housing schemes nationwide here: www.housingcare.org.uk  (click on the accommodation tab and select ‘housing’).

Most rented sheltered housing is allocated through the local authority housing register, together with housing association and social housing properties.  Each council has slightly different criteria for accessing sheltered housing which is often based on ‘local connection’, housing need, health and finances. This will be explained in their 'Social Housing Allocation Policy'. In Wiltshire and Swindon someone may still be able to apply for housing that is adapted for a disability, even if they own their current home or have savings - please refer to the council's allocation policy. Wiltshire council housing register: 0300 456 0106  Swindon council housing register : 01793 445500. 

Some housing associations may offer properties (‘direct lets’) outside of the housing register, usually where they have been unable to allocate them via the register and you can contact local Housing Associations to check this. 

Purchasing Sheltered housing is possible through estate agents and housing developers - generally these are ‘leasehold’ so there may be additional service charges and ground rent to pay.  Age UK have a factsheet 'Specialist Housing for Older People' with things to consider. The Leasehold Advisory Service gives information on leasehold rights and potential issues 

If health reasons are a primary factor in needing to move, a person could request a free occupational therapy assessment at their current property. This could result in up to £1000 of aids and equipment provided to make it more suitable for their needs. If the assessment identifies that the current housing is not suitable then this could add weight to an application for sheltered housing. Supporting medical evidence from a GP or consultant can also be helpful. There is a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance (IG49) to help with the extra costs of having a long-term health condition or disability and people may be entitled to a free care needs assessment from the local authority adult social care team to get some aids and equipment fitted free of charge or other support. You can read more about these in Age UK’s guide Getting help at home (IG23).  To request a free care needs assessment contact:

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500   

Resources:

Direct lettings with housing associations - AUKW info list

List of Almshouses in Wiltshire - AUKW info list

EAC / HousingCare factsheets - housing options and moving in with family etc.

EAC Housing Options for Older People tool (HOOP)- online questionnaire to guide you and provide further advice

Moving into a care home is a big decision and a good starting point in arranging support is contacting the council’s adult social care team to request a free care needs assessment. This is an assessment of a person’s ‘eligible needs’ and can help because it provides a report of what the needs are and how these could be met (a care plan) and the cost of meeting the needs (a personal budget amount), which can be a good basis for arranging care and support such as equipment, care package or residential care home placement. 

Some people are eligible for some local authority funding towards care costs. A person’s financial contribution towards their care costs is calculated from their individual finances using rules outlined in the Care Act 2014 and most people need to pay something towards their care. If you have more than £23,250 in capital you may need to pay all your care costs as a ‘self funder’. In certain circumstances care costs may be met through NHS Continuing Health Care Funding (NHS CHC) which is not means-tested. There is more information about arranging and funding this type of care in Age UK's factsheet Finding, choosing and funding a care home (FS29)

If you have an informal carer, like a partner, they can ask for their own Carer's Assessment to get help.  

• Wiltshire Council Adult Social Care:   0300 456 0111
• Swindon Borough Council Adult Social Care:   01793 445 500   

If you own a property there are particular rules and schemes to consider which are explained in Age UK's Factsheet Property and paying for residential care (FS38) 

For self-funders of care, the Money Helper Service has a page on self-funding your long term care with other options to consider. It is important to be aware of deprivation of assets rules in case you need local authority funding in the future. 

We understand that arranging and funding residential care can be complex and we can give further advice on specific enquiries. 

Resources:

Warm & Safe Wiltshire Tel: 0800 038 5722 are a local service provided by local councils and Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Service, in partnership with Centre for Sustainable Energy, to deliver a comprehensive free energy advice service for Wiltshire and Swindon residents.The service offers: • Advice on eligibility for various energy grants • Advice on insulation, heating and draft proofing and guidance on resolving damp and condensation issues • Guidance on heating systems and controls • Advice on understanding your fuel bills, managing fuel debt and switching energy suppliers

We produce a Spread the Warmth leaflet - information on local and national schemes relating to improving energy efficiency, extra money for heating costs and energy saving advice.

Age UK’s info guide Save Energy Pay Less (IG30) has tips to reduce costs and use energy more efficiently.

Age UK Wiltshire do not provide specialist advice on housing repairs and issues.

Shelter are a national housing charity that can provide free housing advice.

Wiltshire Law Centre provide free legal advice relating to housing matters to Wiltshire and Swindon residents.

The Elderly Accommodation Counsel have useful factsheets and a helpline for housing related queries.

The Leasehold Advisory Service gives information on leasehold rights and potential issues 

Resources

We understand that it can be a bit daunting joining a new group or activitiy and we've put together some prompts to help you identify and understand the options available and support to help you enjoy later life more in ‘Age UK Wiltshire social activities prompt sheet’ . Plus, we have collated lots of information about local groups and resources on our Social activities and groups search page If you're struggling to access these activities or need help understanding what is available then we can have a guided holistic conversation with you to help you overcome barriers and increase your confidence.

We offer Fitness & Friendship clubs across the county and may have availability with our Telephone Befriending service and other support services – see Our Services page under ‘Are you feeling lonely or isolated?‘ for details.

If you have concerns about your overall mental health or wellbeing we have a list of mental health support numbers on our Telephone befriending page

When someone dies there are lots of things to sort out and this is often at an incredibly difficult time when you feel least able to manage. Age UK's info guide When someone dies (IG03) can help you with the practical and emotional issues that you may need to deal with. Age UK’s website page Coping with bereavement may also help you to move things forward.   

We offer a free Legal affairs service - free telephone appointments with a specialist volunteer to help you understand more about the areas of Wills, Power of Attorney and Dealing with an estate. Appointments must be booked in advance. Please note this does not constitute legal advice

The charity Cruse have volunteers who are trained in all types of bereavement and may be able to offer support.  

We'd encourage you to discuss how you're feeling with your GP in the first instance, and the below support services may also be able to help: 

Local charities and services offering free or subsidised counselling or talking therapies and courses to help you manage your mental health and wellbeing include: 

• Olive Branch (North Wilts)
• Help Counselling charity (West Wilts)
• Willows Counselling (Wilts and Swindon)
• Cornerstone (Warminster)
• Kelly Foundation (Swindon)
• Alabare - Riverside mental health and wellbeing support phone line Tel: 0808 2803528
• NHS Swindon talking therapies (previously known as Lift Psychology) and NHS Wiltshire talking therapies (previously known as IAPT)
• The Avon and Wiltshire partnership Mental Health 24/7 Response Line for AWP patients, families and carers who may be worried about their own or someone else's mental health. Tel: 0800 953 1919

National Charities include:

• SANE have a telephone advice line: 07984 967 708 for people experiencing mental health difficulties and low mood.
• The Calm Zone have a telephone helpline 0800 58 58 58 (5pm to midnight) for anyone feeling low in mood and wanting someone to talk to.
• Cruse offer free bereavement support and counselling through appointments in Bath, Salisbury and Swindon and also  have a telephone support line. Tel: 0808 808 1677
• Samaritans offer a non-judgemental listening line: Tel: 116 123

Some practical considerations might include making a will, thinking about powers of attorney and considering funeral arrangements - these can all help ensure your preferences and wishes are taken into account in the future.

Age UK 'Lifebook' is a free downloadable booklet helps you to gather together useful information and contacts in one place.

Financially, you can have an income maximisation check to ensure you are claiming all the benefits and financial help you are entitled to. Familiarise yourself with ways to spot scams so you can keep your money safe.

With regards to your health you can consider completing an Advance Decision which can reassure you that you’ll receive the treatment and care you want. Understanding the process for adult social care assessments and hospital discharge can lessen the worry of what to do if you need a bit more support in the future.

You may wish to consider your housing options and the type of home that would suit your needs both now and in the future, including how any pets would fit into this.

Our FAQs cover many of these issues in more detail and Age UK has a huge range of information guides and factsheets covering topics from finances to care and housing and many more.