UK residents experiencing hearing loss may be eligible for government assistance of up to £441.60 per month.
This financial aid is available through Attendance Allowance, a benefit designed for those of pensionable age who are living with hearing impairments.
The Prevalence of Hearing Loss in the UK
An estimated 12 million adults across Great Britain live with some form of hearing loss or deafness.
Despite this large number, only 35,633 of these individuals are currently receiving financial support through programs such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Attendance Allowance, or Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP).
Financial Support for Those Over State Pension Age
As reported by the Daily Record, more than 9,300 individuals who are above State Pension age are receiving Attendance Allowance due to hearing-related conditions. The benefit offers two payment rates:
- £73.90 for the lower rate
- £110.40 for the higher rate
These payments are made every four weeks, totaling either £296.60 or £441.60 per period.
Coverage of Hearing Conditions under Disability Benefits
There are 15 primary hearing conditions that are supported under the three major disability benefits. However, this list is not exhaustive, as the types of eligible conditions continue to evolve and expand over time.
Benefits Available for Those with Hearing Impairments
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Adult Disability Payment (ADP) are available for those under State Pension age. ADP has now replaced PIP for all new claims in Scotland.
- For individuals aged 66 or older, benefits such as Attendance Allowance or Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) are the appropriate options.
Currently, 1.7 million people across Great Britain are receiving Attendance Allowance. Both Attendance Allowance and PADP are intended to help individuals manage the cost of daily living, ensuring they can maintain independence and quality of life at home.
Key Distinctions in Disability Benefits
It’s important to note that Attendance Allowance and PADP do not offer a mobility component, which is available under PIP and ADP.
These two benefits are specifically designed to assist with the additional daily living costs that arise from hearing impairments.
Breakdown of Claimants by Region (August 2024)
As of August 2024, the distribution of Attendance Allowance claimants based on hearing impairments was as follows:
| Region | Number of Claimants |
|---|---|
| Scotland | 890 |
| England | 7,948 |
| Wales | 690 |
| Living Abroad | 26 |
Types of Hearing Conditions Supported
The following hearing conditions are covered under disability benefits. If your condition isn’t listed here, it might still be eligible under the “unknown” category:
Conductive Hearing Loss Conditions
- Chronic secretory otitis media
- Chronic suppurative otitis media
- Conductive hearing loss (other causes)
- Conductive hearing loss due to trauma
- Mastoiditis
- Chronic otitis externa
- Otosclerosis
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Conditions
- Congenital deafness
- Labyrinthitis
- Meniere’s disease
- Presbyacusis
- Sensorineural hearing loss (other causes)
- Sensorineural hearing loss due to trauma
Other Hearing Conditions
- Mixed hearing loss
- Other diseases affecting hearing and balance
How to Claim Attendance Allowance
To apply for Attendance Allowance and receive financial support for hearing loss, visit the official GOV.UK website.
Information on how to make a claim is readily available and provides guidance on eligibility and the application process.
If you are a UK resident living with hearing loss, there is financial support available to assist with your daily living expenses. Attendance Allowance and PADP offer vital help for those over State Pension age, while individuals under State Pension age may qualify for PIP or ADP.
Regardless of the type of hearing condition, it’s important to check eligibility and apply for the appropriate benefits to ensure you receive the support you need.
FAQs
How much can I receive through Attendance Allowance for hearing loss?
You can receive either £296.60 or £441.60 every four weeks, depending on your level of need.
Do I need to be of State Pension age to apply for Attendance Allowance?
Yes, Attendance Allowance is available for individuals who are 66 years old or older and living with a hearing impairment.
Are there other benefits available for people under State Pension age with hearing loss?
Yes, those under State Pension age may be eligible for PIP or ADP, with ADP replacing PIP in Scotland for new claims.