Sylvia's Story

Thanks to you, Sylvia can live her last days in dignity.

Sylvia* is an 80-year-old widow who lives alone in her own home. Very sadly she has just learned that she is terminally ill - she may not even get to see Christmas this year. Her family, who live an hour away, have been coming over to visit her three times a week to help her as much as they are able. However, her needs in the coming months are going to increase and there is only so much they can do from such a distance.

Sylvia didn’t know about Attendance Allowance, let alone that she might qualify. This benefit helps older people with declining health to pay for care to allow them to stay in their own homes and be independent for as long as possible.

We swiftly helped Sylvia apply and last week we heard the wonderful news that she is going to get £400 a month for the remainder of her life – she has already received her first payment! She was so grateful and said it will mean she can employ someone to help her around the house and pay for other support she will increasingly need as her health deteriorates.

Now, when Sylvia’s family visit, they can spend quality time together in her last days and keep her as comfortable as possible, rather than having to focus on doing practical chores. It’s brought them some vital relief at a very difficult time.