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<p>The Government understands that people across the UK and especially the most vulnerable
members of society, such as those suffering from long-term health conditions and disabilities,
are worried about the rising cost of living. That is why the Government is taking
decisive action to get households through this winter and the next, while ensuring
we act in a fiscally responsible way.</p><p> </p><p>Depending on their specific circumstances,
it is possible that people with multiple sclerosis will qualify for disability benefits.
People in receipt of extra-costs disability benefits such as Personal Independence
Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will receive a one-off Disability
Cost of Living Payment of £150 from 20th September, to help with the extra costs disabled
people are facing. The DWP has already processed around 6 million such payments.</p><p>
</p><p>The Government is also providing a £650 Cost of Living Payment to recipients
of means-tested benefits, to support people with low incomes with the rising cost
of living. Individuals in receipt of means-tested disability benefits, such as income-related
Employment and Support Allowance, or the Universal Credit Health top up are eligible
for this support.</p><p> </p><p>Those suffering from sickle cell disease may also
benefit from other forms of non-means tested support which the Government is providing
to assist with UK households’ energy bills. The Energy Price Guarantee is a scheme
that will cap the unit price households pay for electricity and gas, which means that
a typical household in Great Britain will have to pay bills equivalent to no more
than £2500 a year on their energy bills this winter. This will support people with
a disability who may need to use more energy due to their condition or treatment.</p><p>
</p><p>Secondly via the Energy Bills Support Scheme, which will provide £400 to help
with domestic energy bills. All households in Council Tax bands A-D will also receive
the Government-funded £150 Council Tax Rebate, which will be delivered by Local Authorities.</p><p>
</p><p>Lastly, to support households who need further help or who are not eligible
for elements of the wider package of support, the Government is also providing an
extra £500 million of local support to help with the cost of essentials, via the Household
Support Fund.</p>
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