Landmark legislation will allow fast-tracked access to financial support through the benefits system to thousands more people nearing the end of their life.
In one of his first major legislative acts as monarch, King Charles III has granted Royal Assent to the Social Security (Special Rules for End of Life) Bill.
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).
“It’s hugely important that people in the last year of their life are treated with dignity and receive the financial support they need and deserve quickly,” said Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride MP.
“Extending this support confirms our commitment to alleviating the pressures faced by those who are nearing the end of their lives, and their families.”
The Special Rules changes to PIP, DLA and AA will come into effect as soon as practical and follow the same changes made to Universal Credit (UC) and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) earlier this year.
Those who are eligible will not be required to attend a medical assessment, and in the majority of cases they will receive the highest rate of benefits.