How can a benefits adviser help if I have Parkinson's?

Victoria Griffith is a senior benefits and employment adviser at Parkinson's UK. She explains how her team can help people with Parkinson's.

The benefits team and other advisers can help people with Parkinson’s, and those who care for them, find out what benefits they’re entitled to and how they can claim them.

It costs a lot more money to live with a condition like Parkinson’s. For example, you might spend more time at home than other people, so may have your heating on more than you’re used to. You may also find it difficult to use public transport, so you use taxis more. These costs can really add up.



We speak to many people with young-onset Parkinson’s who often face worries about not being able to continue working. Or they might be worried about reducing their work hours when they need to pay a mortgage or rent.



We also often advise people on pension-age benefits so that they’re not living just on their State Pension.

Helping you feel more confident

Sometimes people apply for a benefit and don’t get it. Or they get a decision from the benefits agency that they don’t agree with, but they don’t quite know what to do. We can support people by challenging these decisions or help with other problems you're facing with the benefits system.



Many people who live with Parkinson’s often feel nervous or don’t quite know where to start with applying for benefits, or think they’re not eligible.



But we can help you feel more comfortable about understanding the process.