In Hospital-Terminal Illness-Housing Benefit & ors

Hi to All and hope enjoyed BH weekend. The time has come for me to ask for your help.

Just over a year ago my Mother was diagnosed with Alzheimers. At that time, Attendance Allowance was applied for and awarded. As my Mother was single & nobody claimed Carers Allowance, my Mothers pension credit was increased via Severe Disability Premium. In total, benefits awarded-state pension, pension credit including SDP and attendance allowance. Housing Benefit & Council Tax also being paid. Due to diagnosis, my Mother was moved into an extra care facility (not classed as rest/care home). HB and CT continue in payment.

The situation changed recently she was rushed into hospital. Mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Regardless of diagnosis my Mother returned home. However, since returning home, due to deterioration in health my Mother has been in hospital since last Sunday, so to date, just over a week.

I am aware DWP Attendance Allowance and Pension Credit (for Severe Disability Premium part of PC payment) offices need to be informed if/when 4 week in hospital is reached.

However, have been advised (not definitely told) that it is unlikely Mum will be returning home and has been referred to local MacMillan Hospice. In the meantime, whilst waiting for a bed to become available, Mum could remain at Hospital or if need arises moved to care/rest home, whilst awaiting move hospice for respite and/or end of life care.

My query relates to notifying Housing Benefit/Council Tax offices that Mum will not be returning home and when I am required to this. Also any further advise

Any help or advice from those reading is most welcome as can really do without added stresses of potential problems with DWP offices and/or local authority.

Many thanks.

Thank you, Gordon.

I just do not wish a situation to arise causing a potential overpayment. I know that extra care facility run by social landlord who receive HB, require 4 weeks notice. Knowing how even simplest of situations can cause potential o/p's, can do well without!

I was wondering if there is standard form/letter patient or appointee can be provided with confirming person will not be returning home and giving date of their professional opinion? Or if you have ever heard of such?

It seems to be 1 of those specific situations where there is very, very little information about!

Hi Gordon,

Now have definitive answer to query. Hopefully the edited version of a response I received may help others going through similar situation.

Only when a decision has been made by social services or the hospital authorities will you be able to make plans for termination of a tenancy...
If your mother goes into a care home the stay is temporary for the first six weeks and then a further "permanency" assessment takes place. Even before permanency is decided you will have already become aware of whether a return home is likely. At this point you give notice. The tenancy agreement will indicate how long this will be. Then inform HB that notice has been given.

However, and as in your response, I would still advise making yourself known to MacMillan Nurse and/or Social Services Officer, at whichever medical facility a relation maybe an inpatient. Bearing in mind the circumstances, have found them more willing to assist in such circumstances. They have certainly been able to put my mind at rest over the 'worry' I had as in post 1!

Just wanted to update and give little bit back!

Thanks again.