State benefits

There are many different benefits available, depending on your needs and your circumstances. But you may not know what you are entitled to, or how to apply for a benefit, or what to do if you think you have been unfairly turned down for a benefit.

You will not be entitled to financial help simply because you are HIV-positive. But if you are unable to work, or on a low income, or need care or support, you may be able to claim some benefits.

Rules about benefit entitlement for people who are ill and unable to work changed in November 2008.

People who already receive Incapacity Benefit will continue to receive it (more information is available here). People applying for benefit because they are too ill to work after 27 October 2008 will need to apply for Employment and Support Allowance. You can find more information on this benefit here.

There is more information on financial help with housing in the Housing section of namlife.org.

You can find out more about the type of benefits available here. The Benefits Adviser tool on www.direct.gov.uk can help you work out whether you are entitled to any state benefits, or you can find out where to get more advice here.

You can find more information on welfare benefits here or by contacting:

• the Community Legal Advice service on 0845 345 4 345 (or you can email them from here asking them to call you back)
• Citizens Advice here or at your local citizens advice bureau
• the Department of Work and Pensions
• Carersnet to find out more about benefits for people caring for others.

If you have any questions about state benefits you would be well advised to seek specialist advice. THT Direct is the signposting and telephone advice section of Terrence Higgins Trust. They can be contacted on 0845 1221200. If you have a benefit or debt problem, they can give you advice, and if necessary details of agencies in your area who are able to assist with your problem.