Able Community Care

14/08/2026

The Friday Care Tip 14th August 2026
Friday Care Tip – Pensioners Could Be Missing Out on Money
It is estimated that up to £3.5 billion goes unclaimed each year by UK pensioners. This can include unclaimed state benefits as well as forgotten workplace and personal pension pots.
It is always worth taking a few minutes to check whether you, a family member, or a friend may be entitled to additional financial support.
Here are three useful resources:
1. Turn2us Benefits Calculator
A free online tool that can help identify benefits you may be entitled to, including Pension Credit and other support available to pensioners.
2. Find Pension Contact Details
If you have worked for several employers over the years, you may have a pension pot that you have forgotten about. This service helps trace workplace and personal pension providers using a database of over 200,000 schemes.
3. GOV.UK Benefits Calculators
The Government's official benefits calculators can help you check what financial assistance you may be entitled to receive.
A few minutes spent checking could make a significant difference to your annual income. If you know an older person who may be struggling financially, please consider sharing this information with them.
Apart from organisations such as Age UK and Citizens Advice, many local libraries can also provide practical assistance for people who are not confident using the internet. Library staff may be able to help with:
• Accessing benefits calculators
• Printing forms and information
• Navigating GOV.UK websites
• Finding contact details for pension providers
Posted by Able Community Care, a nationwide live-in care provider since 1980.
www.ablecommunitycare.com

If you would like to receive The Friday Care Tip as an individual, please email to: [email protected].

Trusted live-in care across the UK & Channel Islands since 1980. Reliable 24-hour support so you can stay in your own home. Contact us for friendly advice

06/08/2026

When exploring live-in care options, it is always worth asking about all charges and terms before making a decision.
Recently, during a conversation with a prospective client's family member, it was mentioned that their current care provider charges fees if a client is admitted to hospital and continues charging for a period after a client's death.
At Able Community Care, our approach is different. We do not charge hospitalisation fees, and when a client sadly passes away, our charges simply stop.
Every care provider operates differently, so it is important to understand exactly what is included and what charges may apply.
For over 46 years, Able Community Care has been helping people remain safely and comfortably in their own homes with live-in care support throughout the UK.
We believe families have enough to think about during difficult times without worrying about unexpected charges.
To learn more, visit Able Community Care

06/08/2026

The Friday Care Tip – 6 August 2026
Could You Be Missing Out on Pension Credit?
An estimated 910,000 pensioner households across the UK may be entitled to Pension Credit but are not claiming it. Many people assume they will not qualify because they own their home or have some savings, but this is often not the case.
Pension Credit is a benefit for people who have reached State Pension age and are living on a low income. It is separate from your State Pension and can provide a valuable income boost.
Guarantee Credit
Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income to a minimum level:
• £238.00 per week for a single person
• £363.25 per week for a couple
You may receive more if you are a carer, have a disability, are responsible for a child, or have certain housing costs.
Savings Credit
Some people may also qualify for Savings Credit, an extra payment for those who saved towards their retirement through a workplace pension, private pension or modest savings.
Savings Credit is generally only available to people who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if:
• You live in England, Scotland or Wales
• You have reached State Pension age
• Your income is below the qualifying levels, or only slightly above them
Even if you have some savings or own your home, it is still worth checking.
Before You Apply
Have the following information ready:
• National Insurance number
• Bank or building society account details
• Details of your State Pension and any private or workplace pensions
• Details of any savings or investments
• Information about housing costs, if applicable
How to Apply
Online: Search GOV.UK Pension Credit.
Telephone: 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday, 8am–6pm).
Welsh language: 0800 731 0453.
By Post: Request a form from the Pension Credit claim line or download one from GOV.UK.
Our Tip
If you are unsure whether you qualify, apply anyway or ask a family member to help you check. Many people are pleasantly surprised to discover they are entitled to support, and even a small Pension Credit award can open the door to other valuable benefits.
It is better to know about support and not need it, than need it and not know it exists.
Posted by Able Community Care, a nationwide live-in care provider since 1980. www.ablecommunitycare.com

Trusted live-in care across the UK & Channel Islands since 1980. Reliable 24-hour support so you can stay in your own home. Contact us for friendly advice

05/08/2026

A three day Recruitment/Admin Assistant wanted for a friendly office in Trowse. Hours 9am-4pm. Please call Judy on 01603 764567 for further details
Able Community Care Est, in 1980

31/07/2026

Friday Care Tip:
Choosing a home care provider is one of the most important decisions a family can make. A polished website or glossy brochure can look impressive, but the real quality of care shows in the day-to-day conversations and how well the provider listens.Here are the key questions worth asking before you decide…

Choosing the right home care provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s what to look for beyond the glossy brochure.

27/07/2026

Did you know you don’t have to pay anyone to apply for Attendance Allowance?
Some companies charge hundreds of pounds to help with claims — but you can apply yourself for free, or get free support from organisations like Age UK and Citizens Advice.
We’ve put together a short guide with the current rates and where to get help:
👉 https://www.ablecommunitycare.com/blog/you-do-not-have-to-pay-to-apply-for-attendance-allowance/
Please share with anyone who may benefit.

Don’t pay companies to claim Attendance Allowance. You can apply yourself for free – here’s how, plus current rates and free help contacts.

23/07/2026

The Friday Care Tip – 24 July 2026
You do NOT have to pay to apply for the Attendance Allowance or Scotland's Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP).
We recently heard of a pensioner who was contacted unexpectedly and told she could receive up to £114.60 per week* and that their company could complete an application for her.
A little research revealed that some businesses charge between £250 and £650 + VAT to help with Attendance Allowance claims, while others work on a "No Win, No Fee" basis or take a percentage of the award.
Before paying anyone, remember:
1. You can apply yourself online or by requesting an application form.
2. Free help is available from trusted organisations, including:
• Age UK – 0800 678 1602 or local branches
• Independent Age – 0800 319 6789
• Your local Citizens Advice branch
Advice organisations consistently point out that you do not need to pay for assistance with an Attendance Allowance application.
Please share this information with older relatives, friends, and neighbours who may benefit.
*Lower rate is £76.70
Posted by Able Community Care, providing nationwide live-in care support for older people and adults with disabilities. www.ablecommunitycare.com
If you would like to receive The Friday Care Tip each week, please email to: [email protected]

Trusted live-in care across the UK & Channel Islands since 1980. Reliable 24-hour support so you can stay in your own home. Contact us for friendly advice

17/07/2026

Friday Care Tip – 17 July 2026
Buying Second-Hand Disability Equipment
If you, a family member, or a friend are considering using a disability aid to help maintain independence—whether it's a walking stick, Zimmer frame, mobility scooter, or wheelchair—it can be tempting to look for second-hand equipment through online marketplaces, car boot sales, or local advertisements.
However, caution is advised when purchasing used mobility and disability equipment. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), accidents involving second-hand equipment can result from hidden wear and tear, and common risks include falls caused by faulty brakes, electric shocks from damaged wiring, and injuries resulting from defective or unguarded moving parts.
Even simple aids require careful consideration. For example, a Zimmer frame should be correctly fitted to the individual user. An incorrectly sized frame can cause a person to stoop, place unnecessary strain on the back and shoulders, and prevent their weight from being safely supported.
Before purchasing equipment, consider requesting an assessment from an Occupational Therapist through your GP surgery. An Occupational Therapist can advise on the most suitable equipment for your needs and ensure it is correctly fitted. In some cases, equipment may be provided free of charge. If it is only needed for a short period, it may be available to borrow from organisations such as Age UK or the British Red Cross. Alternatively, equipment can be purchased from reputable mobility equipment suppliers.
Posted by Able Community Care, nationwide live-in care providers since 1980.
Website: ablecommunitycare.com
If you would like to receive The Friday Care Tip each week, please email: [email protected]

13/07/2026

Sharing Every Moment, From Centre Court to Extra Time
This morning, we asked our carers whether they stayed up with their clients to watch England's dramatic victory over Norway. We were delighted to hear that several of them did.
Others told us they spent Sunday afternoon enjoying the Wimbledon men's final with their clients, watching Jannik Sinner retain his title in a thrilling four-set match.
These stories perfectly illustrate the difference that live-in care can make.
Care is about much more than helping with personal care, medication, meals and household tasks. It's about companionship, shared experiences and being present for life's special moments—whether that's cheering on England in a major tournament, watching Wimbledon on Centre Court, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a favourite TV programme together.
Because a live-in carer is there throughout the day and night, clients don't have to miss out on the moments that bring joy, connection and conversation.
As an established live-in care provider with 46 years of experience, we're proud that our carers don't just support people to live independently at home—they help them continue enjoying the things they love.
That's the real value of live-in care.
Able Community Care nationwide provider since 1980

Trusted live-in care across the UK & Channel Islands since 1980. Reliable 24-hour support so you can stay in your own home. Call 01603 764567 for friendly advice

10/07/2026

We’ve just published a new update on our Holiday Care Companion service!
This week we received two lovely enquiries — one for an accessible cruise holiday in September, and another for a seaside break in Bournemouth.
Read how our Holiday Care Companions are helping more people enjoy personalised, supported holidays with confidence.

Holiday Care Companion receives new enquiries for an accessible cruise and Bournemouth break. See how our companions help older people and those with disabilities enjoy personalised holidays.