May 12 2016: International ME day
Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), is a debilitating illness characterised by persistent, physical and mental fatigue pain, difficulties sleeping, depression as well as memory and concentration problems.
People with the condition can find managing activities of daily living difficult and may find it hard to hold down a job. This means many find to make ends meet on a low income.
Turn2us Research
People with illnesses or disabilities like ME are key target group for Turn2us services.
In our recent survey, over half (53%) of the respondents who had disabilities, said they had been deterred from checking or claiming benefits because they did not think they would be eligible. In addition, a quarter (25%) felt that recent welfare benefit changes have made applying too difficult.
Worryingly, over two-fifths (41%) of people with disabilities who don’t currently claim benefits said they would have to cut back on gas, electricity and other essentials if their income dropped and nearly two in four (38%) would resort to cutting back on food.
Turn2us help
Yet help is available to many people. You can use our online tools and resources to find out what you might be able to claim or apply for.
If you have an illness or disabilities, the ‘Ill, injured or have a disability’ section of the Turn2us website discusses the help that may be available to you through benefits and grants. This includes information on Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
If you caring for someone with an illness or disability,, the ‘Carers’ section of the Turn2us website has information about ways you might be able to get help if you are struggling financially. This includes information on Carer’s Allowance and Carer's Credit.
You can also use the free Turn2us Benefits Calculator to check your benefits entitlements. Even if you have checked before, it is worth checking again, especially if there has been a change in your circumstances.
You can also check if you are eligible for a charitable grant or other support by using the Turn2us Grants Search.
If you are worried about your situation and would like further advice, you can use the Turn2us Find an Adviser tool to locate face-to-face advice in your local area.