Understanding Attendance Allowance: A Simple Guide for Families Seeking Home Care in Southampton, Fareham & Surrounding Areas
Published: 17/11/2025
Caring for a loved one at home in Southampton, Gosport, Fareham, Hedge End, Park Gate, or Bitterne can be both rewarding and challenging. Many families worry about covering the extra costs that come with support at home whether it’s help with personal care, managing medication, or having a companion for reassurance. One form of financial help that often goes unnoticed is Attendance Allowance. This benefit can make a real difference, yet many people who qualify either don’t know about it or find the process confusing.This guide explains,in simple terms, what Attendance Allowance is, who can apply, and how it can help your loved one remain safe and independent at home.
What is Attendance Allowance and How It Helps with Home Care in Southampton & Surrounding Areas
Attendance Allowance is a UK government benefit for people over State Pension age who need help due to an illness or disability. It is not based on savings or income, but rather on how much help someone needs daily.This allowance supports those who require extra assistance with:
- Personal care such as washing, dressing, or eating
- Supervision to stay safe at home
- Managing the challenges of long-term health conditions
For families arranging domiciliary care in Southampton, Gosport, Fareham, Hedge End, Park Gate, or Bitterne, Attendance Allowance can help cover costs,making professional care more accessible and easing the burden on loved.
Who Can Apply for Attendance Allowance and Domiciliary Care Support
You can apply if your loved one:
• Is over State Pension age (here is a link to the changes in state pension age)
• Has a physical or mental health condition affecting daily life
• Needs help with personal care
• Requires supervision to avoid accidents
It doesn’t matter if they already have a Care Assistant or live in Carer, the key is the level of support they need. Many families use the allowance to arrange home care in Southampton and nearby areas, ensuring consistent professional help.
How Much Could You Receive?
Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates:
• Lower rate (£73.90): For those needing help during the day or night
• Higher rate (£110.40): For those needing help during both day and night
Payments are usually made weekly straight into the applicant’s bank account. As of 2025, the Attendance Allowance rate is £72.65 per week for the lower rate and £108.55 per week for the higher rate.This support can go a long way in helping to cover a few hours of care each week,
something many families may not realise can make such a positive difference. The amount may change each tax year, so we always recommend checking the latest details on the official
government website.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
Applying may seem overwhelming, but it’s manageable with guidance. Here’s how:
1. Get the form – Request an Attendance Allowance claim form by phone or download it online.
2. Fill it out in detail – Be specific about the help your loved one needs, even if they don’t
currently receive it.
3. Provide examples – Include real situations where they struggle with daily tasks, mobility, or
safety.
4. Send the form – Post it to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Tip: Ask a health professional or Care Assistant for advice, as they can help make your application stronger. We’ve also worked with Caroline from Grey Matters Consultancy for many years. She offers support with completing the form for a small fee. It’s always best to get help
from someone you trust who understands the process, to make sure your application is completed correctly. You can find out more about Grey Matters Consultancy here: Claiming Attendance Allowance | Grey Matters Consultancy
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a Care Assistant to claim? No. Attendance Allowance is based on need, not current support. Many families use it to arrange professional home care in Southampton and surrounding areas.
- Can my loved one live alone? Yes. The allowance is available whether they live alone, with family, or with others.
- Does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits? It may increase entitlement to Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.
- What if my loved one’s needs change? If their needs increase, contact the DWP for a reassessment, which could move them from the lower rate to the higher rate.
Why Attendance Allowance Matters
Attendance Allowance is about more than money. It helps people live safely and independently at home, with dignity and comfort. For families, it brings peace of mind knowing that extra support is available when needed. At Right at Home, we often meet families unsure how to
manage home care costs. Attendance Allowance can ease this worry and open the door to reliable, professional care from trained Care Assistants in Southampton, Gosport, Fareham,Hedge End, Park Gate, and Bitterne.
Final Thoughts
Attendance Allowance ensures dignity, independence, and comfort for your loved one. With the right care in place, supported by Attendance Allowance, families can feel reassured that their loved one is safe, valued, and cared for. Call us today to arrange a free Care Assessment and learn how we can support your family with home care in Southampton, Fareham or domiciliary care in nearby areas.
