North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson joined MPs from across Westminster to attend an event raising awareness for support available to people who are nearing the end of their lives.
In November the Social Security (Special Rules for End of Life) Bill was given Royal Assent, giving thousands more people nearing the end of their life fast-tracked access to financial support through the benefits system.
This means that people who are thought to be in the final year of their life will be able to receive fast-tracked access to certain benefits, six months earlier than they were able to previously.
This will apply to Personal Independent Payments (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Attendance Allowance (AA).
As previous Minister for Disabled People, Justin brought forward these rules, working alongside organisations such as the MND Association, Parkinson's UK and Marie Curie.
Justin Tomlinson said: “I am very proud that the new Special Rules for End of Life have now been passed. As the fomer Minister for Disabled People, it was me that initially brought these measures forward after 18 months of extensive consultation and policy development with key health and disability charities and organisations These crucial changed will directly benefit people who are nearing the ned of life with faster and easier access to certain benefits.”
For more information regarding support available to those nearing the end of their lives please visit www.gov.uk/benefits-end-of-life
