Beneficiary Success for Sarah!

Thanks to the close working partnership between Angela Macleod, NHS Western Isles Neurology Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Angela Macdonald, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Financial Inclusion Officer, local lady Sarah has been fortunate in receiving a 6 month back-dated Benefits Assessment under Special Rules in Scotland (BASRIS) payment, and in addition is now receiving a weekly payment, due to her diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Sarah has been successful due to the Scottish Government changing the definition of a BASRiS to include people who have progressive, lifelong illnesses, which go beyond cancer to include other areas, whether they are single or multiple conditions, such as organ failure, neurological diseases, stroke, dementia and rare conditions or diseases.

This means that a medical professional completing a BASRiS ensures that the applicant no longer must complete the cumbersome 100-page form, and they will receive the highest rate of both the daily living and mobility elements of ADP within a week, rather than having to wait months.

Sarah, aged 38 and who lives on Uist, said: “Having a mostly ‘invisible' illness, I didn't think I would be entitled to any help other than my free bus pass.  However, thanks to the two Angelas, who completed the BASRiS Form on my behalf, I now receive a non-means-tested payment into my account every week, which takes the pressure off the daily costs that having a disability incurs.   I would like to express my deepest appreciation for their support.”

The NHS Western Isles Neurology Specialist Nursing Service provides high quality nursing care and support to patients living with and affected by neurological conditions, within a supportive and safe environment.  Patients are referred to the service by their Consultant Neurologist, only once aconfirmed diagnosis has been made.

Angela Macleod, who manages the service, said: “On behalf of NHS Western Isles, our team was delighted to assist Sarah obtain the benefits she was entitled to.  To have her benefits backdated six months is fantastic news.  We would encourage other patients who meet the BASRiS criteria to enquire about what benefits they may be entitled to, especially during the current cost of living crisis.”    

Angela Macdonald, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Financial Inclusion Officer, offers to undertake benefits checks for anyone who meets the BASRiS criteria that either self-refers or is referred by healthcare professional, and completing applications on their behalf if they are not claiming something they are entitled to. 

Angela said: “I use a holistic approach whereby my role includes assessing ways in which to help the person and their home environment, including bills, insulation and heating, and acquiring additional appropriate healthcare, if required.  Appropriate individuals are then referred to colleagues at Tighean Innse Gall (TIG), Home Energy Scotland and the appropriate NHS specialist team. This approach allows us to ensure every aspect of the person’s life is being fulfilled to a high standard.”

Sarah added: “The terminology used in the BASRiS form is daunting, but my advice is that if you have a progressive neurological illness, such as Multiple Sclerosis, please reach out to your Specialist Nurse for support.”