In a typical year, we help secure around £300,000 of additional benefit income for older people in East Elmbridge. For many, this support makes a significant difference to their independence, comfort, and overall quality of life.
Too often, older people miss out on the benefits they are entitled to, sometimes because the application process is complex and overwhelming, or because they are unaware of what help is available.
CHEER offers a lifeline to those who might otherwise struggle. We are the only local charity providing home visits from fully trained advisers, who take the time — typically two hours or more per visit — to explain available benefits, gather supporting information, and assist with the paperwork needed to make a successful claim.
This service is currently available in Esher, Oxshott, Thames Ditton, Long Ditton, East and West Molesey, Hinchley Wood, Claygate, Weston Green, Stoke d’Abernon, and Cobham.
Benefits we can assist you with:
Attendance Allowance (AA)
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit available to people aged 65 or over who have a medical condition or disability that means they need help with personal care. This may include assistance with washing, dressing, or supervision to ensure safety (but does not cover help with shopping or cooking).
To qualify, you must have needed help for at least six months due to your condition. The allowance is paid at either a lower or higher rate depending on the level of care required. It is not affected by your income or savings and receiving it can sometimes help you qualify for other benefits such as Pension Credit or Council Tax Reduction.
Council Tax Reduction (formerly Council Tax Benefit)
Council Tax Reduction (CTR) may be available to help reduce your Council Tax bill if you are on a low income, claim certain benefits, or have a disability such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. People receiving Attendance Allowance may qualify for a reduction if they meet the council’s other criteria. The amount of help you receive depends on your income, savings, and local council rules. You can apply through your local council’s website.
Blue Badge
The Blue Badge scheme provides parking concessions for people who have significant difficulty walking or who have other serious mobility issues. It allows holders to park closer to shops, services, and facilities. The badge can be used in the holder’s own vehicle or one belonging to a friend, family member, or carer who provides transport.
Applications are made through your local council (for example, Surrey County Council), and an assessment may be required to confirm eligibility.
Pension Credit
Pension Credit is an income-related benefit designed to top up the weekly income of older people who are below the Government’s set threshold. It has two parts:
Guarantee Credit, which tops up your weekly income to a minimum level.
Savings Credit, which provides extra money if you have modest savings or income.
Receiving Pension Credit can also help you qualify for other benefits such as free NHS dental treatment, help with housing costs, or a free TV licence (for those over 75).
Housing Benefit
Housing Benefit helps people on a low income pay their rent. It can cover all or part of your rent, depending on your income, savings, and household circumstances. This benefit is being replaced gradually by Universal Credit for most new applicants, but some pensioners and people living in supported or temporary accommodation can still claim Housing Benefit directly from their local council.
Our advisers will be able to help determine if you are eligible to claim any of these benefits. If you would like help with claiming benefits to which you may be entitled, or know of someone who may need this kind of help, please contact us. All referrals and subsequent actions are handled in the strictest confidence.
“CHEER helped my brother with his pension, attendance allowance and housing benefit. He is hugely grateful and so am I. Will you please pass on our thanks for such a wonderful job”