Welfare Advice
If you find yourself having left any armed forces and not gained employment or been unable to and are struggling financially then our benefits and advice section can assist. If you are of working age, the range of benefits open to you are detailed on the Benefits for Working age adults page.
Armed Forces Independence Payment
If you have been seriously injured whilst serving in the Armed Forces since April 2005, you may qualify for Armed Forces Independence Payment.
Disability Living Allowance is currently being replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for working age people. Armed Forces Independence Payment is an alternative benefit to PIP for Service personnel and Veterans who have been seriously injured during military service since April 2005.
- Armed Forces Independence Payment is not taxable, non means-tested and is payable anywhere in the world.
- It is awarded for life, not subject to review or further medical assessments and will not be stopped if you are admitted to hospital, a care home or prison.
- If you choose to claim Armed Forces Independence Payment, then you will not be able to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance at the same time. However, if you choose not to apply for Armed Forces Independence Payment, or if you are not eligible for it, there is nothing to stop you applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance.
Who is eligible for payments?
Only people receiving a Guaranteed Income Payment of 50% or more through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme will be eligible for the payments.
How to claim
The Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA) will automatically send you a claim form if they think you are eligible.
Scottish Welfare Fund
The Scottish Welfare Fund is a new service provided by councils from 1 April 2013. It replaces the discretionary Social Fund provided by the Department for Work and Pensions.
The Scottish Welfare Fund will offer 2 new grants; crisis grant or a community care grant.