This booklet gives basic information about social security benefits for elderly, sick, disabled and unemployed people and families with children. It is intended as a guide for all who can help others to claim their rights. Local authorities also provide a wide range of services (some of which, eg home helps and school meals, are mentioned briefly in this booklet). Services available vary from area to area and further information can be obtained from the social service department of the appropriate authority.
The information takes into account the increases in benefits from November 1977 and includes up-to-date information on benefits introduced since the last edition was published in November 1976.
The booklet is divided into seven parts as follows:
Part 1:
This is a checklist of the various categories of potential claimants and the benefits to which they might be entitled. The benefits are cross referenced to Part 2 and this section acts as a Table of Contents. Some benefits are, of course, listed under more than one heading.
Part 2:
Information about the benefits and services available, listed in alphabetical order.
Part 3:
Information about entitlement on account of low income to dental treatment, glasses, hospital fares, prescription charges and milk and vitamins.
Part 4:
Brief information on the main points of the New State Pension Scheme.
Part 5:
Information on national insurance contributions and benefits.
Part 6:
Information for people going abroad or arriving from abroad.
Part 7:
1
A list of some of the main social security leaflets.