Am I eligible for benefits? There are benefits you can apply for with a diagnosis of bipolar Expand Benefits and allowances are sometimes available for individuals diagnosed with bipolar. However the benefits structure in the UK is currently being reformed. The charity Disability Rights UK has a fantastic website to help you through the benefits maze. Citizens Advice also has offer advice and guidance on benefits. You may find it useful to contact your local branch to speak to one of their benefits advisers. As your national bipolar charity we also respond to proposed changes in legislation and highlight new changes on our website for your information.
Travel Insurance & Travelling abroad Expand Are you thinking of travelling abroad? Similar to other severe illnesses, the only times you might be prohibited from travelling is if you are too ill to travel. If, for example, you're suffering from a manic or depressive episode (or have very recently had an episode) you are unlikely to be well enough to travel abroad. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have issued a guidance leaflet and a checklist that can help travellers better prepare for their journey and get help when abroad. Click here to find out more. Travel Insurance It sometimes can be difficult to purchase travel insurance from High Street insurers if you have a severe mental health condition. Understanding your insurance rights and shopping around to compare quotes can be a really good way of finding the right deal for you or your loved one.
I have overspent in a manic episode and I'm unable to pay my creditors It is a feature of bipolar for some people to overspend when hypomanic or manic. Be brave and face your creditors Expand The first step in acknowledging you are in trouble is sometimes the most difficult of all. The old adage that a problem shared is really important as it is often easier if you can talk with a member of your family or a friend about the challenges you are facing. A number of local Citizens Advice Bureaux may also have a debt counsellor. Although there is often a waiting list, many service users have explained it is well worth the wait. The key in trying to pave a way forward is communication between you and your creditors. In the first instance you should write to your creditors explaining the difficulties you are facing in terms of spending when in a manic episode and that you are unable to pay the current repayment schedule. Ask if they might consider alternative ways of paying off the debt. They will then have to consider and work out a way to solve the problem. As is often the case you will likely find organisations differ in their flexibility, but you are keeping the lines of communication open and some may assist you and help reduce the enormous stress you are both facing. See our list of useful links to organisations that can help with financial concerns
I have financial concerns Look for help if you have money troubles because of your bipolar Expand Managing bipolar can be hampered by the additional stress and practical problems presented by financial difficulties. Whether it is repairing the damage caused by excessive spending during manic episodes, dealing with loss of earnings as a result of the illness or taking steps to prevent future problems, financial health can be an important factor for your health and wellbeing. See our useful links to organisations that can help address your financial concerns
debt & benefits advice links Links to other websites and organisations that can offer information and support about benefits. Expand Department for Work and PensionsThis is a useful resource giving information about options for claiming benefits for both people with disabilities and their carers. It also provides instructions about how to go about claiming. Citizens AdviceFree, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities. Turn2UsA national charity that helps people in financial hardship to gain access to welfare benefits, charitable grants and support services. Advice NowInformation on the law and your rights regarding benefits and employment. Healthy Start A government based initiative that helps pregnant women on benefits or under the age of 18, and families with young children on benefits, get free vouchers every week to spend on milk, plain fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables, and infant formula milk. You can also get free vitamins. PayPlan They are a free debt advice provider and offer expert advice around debt management to help you make a plan to get your debts and payments under control. If you would like to speak with one of their advisors, email [email protected] or click here.
Debt Respite Scheme (Breathing Space) The Debt Respite Scheme (Breathing Space) allows eligible people with mental illness in crisis to have legal protections from their creditors Expand You can only apply for Breathing Space by seeking advice from a debt adviser. This scheme is only open to people who are under crisis help from a mental health service. You can read the Guidance for money advisors and a factsheet from, the National Debtline
Can i get help with debt? The Debt Respite Scheme allows eligible people with mental illness in crisis to have legal protections from their creditors Expand If you have problem debt and you meet the eligibility criteria and conditions and you are receiving mental health crisis treatment, you may be eligible for help under this scheme. You can read the Guidance for money advisors and a factsheet from, the National Debtline
Debt Advice Links to organisations that can support you Expand Links to organisations that can support you PayPlanHelp for people become debt-free through clear, honest advice and debt solutions that work StepChange Debt CharitySupport and information for people caring for a young person with a mental health condition