C7 - Receiving Financial Assistance for a Gardener
If you are eligible for a Disability Allowance, or already receive it, you may be able to use some of the allowance to hire a gardener.
The Disability Allowance is a weekly payment for people who have regular, ongoing costs because of a disability that is likely to last six months or longer. The allowance can be
used for a range of different costs. See B15 Disability Allowance.
You can arrange for a gardener and pay them directly with money from the allowance you receive. You can choose whom you like to do the work.
Pros
- For some people, being able to access funding means the difference between having or not having their garden and lawns maintained.
Cons
- Because the Disability Allowance is a capped allowance, once your disability costs reach the maximum, you cannot receive any more funding. So, if you already receive the
maximum without including gardening costs, you won't be able to get extra money for gardening.
What do I need in order to take this option?
You must be eligible to receive funding.
Eligibility
- You need to complete a Disability Allowance Application form from Work and Income. You can do this online, you can download a copy of the form to complete and send in or you
can contact Work and Income to post you a form.
- Your doctor must certify on the form that your disability is likely to last six months or longer.
- Your income must be under a certain limit to qualify for the allowance.
- You will also need to provide invoices or receipts as proof of your gardening costs.
Could this option limit my future choices?
No, it could enable you to remain independent in your home for longer and will help you to look after your home, thereby preserving its value.
For more information