One in six people live with a neurological condition.
Extra costs associated with a neurological condition, including higher heating bills, buying specialised equipment, paying for taxis to get around or covering higher insurance premiums, are estimated to cost at least an additional £200 a week.
Neurological charities and members of the Neurological Alliance have all expressed grave concern about how the increase in energy bills and the cost of living will affect their members.
The letter proposes three actions:
- Uprate benefits in-line with inflation
- Increase the level of Disability Cost of Living Payments
- Extend the Warm Homes Discount to disabled people
Cath Stanley, Chief Executive of the Huntington Disease Association, said: “We have seen a worrying trend in the number of people getting in touch who are concerned about how they are going to keep their house warm this winter, people living with Huntington’s disease already have increased energy needs.
“A recent survey found 93% of respondents say the symptoms of Huntington's disease mean you use higher levels of energy in your home. Many told us in the same survey they face homelessness and increased debt. They need support now.”
Georgina Carr CEO of the Neurological Alliance said: “Not only is it a struggle to access the right support, but living with the effects of a neurological condition often comes with a hefty price tag.
“A safe and comfortable home, the right specialist care and the right aids and adaptations, are all vitally important to staying in work as long as possible, socialising and retaining independence.
“The new Chancellor has an opportunity to show his support for the one in six living with a neurological condition, starting with a recommitment to uprating benefits in line with inflation in the forthcoming Fiscal Plan.”
The joint open letter to Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor of the Exchequer is available from hda.org.uk.
See also our related news story Soaring costs hit Disabled people.
