First Published Thursday, 27 November 2008
Much is still unknown about the issues relating to autism and ageing what they are and what to do about them. The lead feature in the Winter 2008 issue of our NAS members magazine, Communication, (out 25th November), looks at our growing experience, here at the NAS, of supporting adults with autism who are ageing and the key issues relating to their health and wellbeing.
In the same issue…
The very things that many neurotypical people enjoy about Christmas are those that some people with autism find difficult – the changes to routine, the surprises, unexpected guests and so on. Other features in this issue include how to make your Christmas a happy one for all the family if you’re living with a person with autism who hates disruption. There are also features on useful equipment that can help to make a range of day-to-day situations easier, a report from the NAS International Conference and what to do if your child is faced with exclusion from school. There is also news, reviews, comment and advice.
Communication is received by all NAS members every three months. Join the NAS now to get your copy of this and future issues of the magazine.
Source: Â http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=18215
Extra ‘Christmas bonus’Â for some people affected by autism
In his pre-Budget report, delivered on 24 November, the Chancellor announced an additional payment of £60 on top of the 2008 £10 Christmas bonus payment. The Christmas bonus is paid to people receiving Carer’s Allowance, Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance, Incapacity Benefit (long-term rate) or Employment Support Allowance and state pension.
Head of NAS Policy and Campaigns, Amanda Batten, said:
“We welcome the Government’s recognition that Christmas is a difficult time for disabled people and their families. However, this is a one-off payment and if the Government is to meet its commitment to end child poverty then it is vital that it does more to support people with autism and their families. In particular we call for an uprating of Carer’s Allowance which is currently paid at the pitifully low rate of £50.55 per week.”
More information about this year’s Christmas bonus
The annual £10 payment will be paid from 1 December 2008 and the additional £60 will be paid between January and March, making a total Christmas bonus payment of £70 for Christmas 2008. It will be paid automatically so customers do not have to apply for the additional amount. Christmas bonus is a tax-free payment and is not taken into account in the income-related benefits.
The Government has set up a dedicated number, 0800 141 2591, to deal with customer enquiries about the additional payment.
Related resources
Relevant areas/articles elsewhere on this website Campaigning for change
Source: Â http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=253&a=18223
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