Case Studies

Jackie's Story

Jackie first came into contact with Age UK Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge (AUKMST) when her husband, David, was diagnosed with the early stages of dementia. Back in 2019, David was first diagnosed with the beginnings of dementia. At this point in time, both Jackie and David were unsure about what the journey through David’s support and treatment would be.

They initially contacted Adult Social Services, expecting that they would be entitled to support through them, but were disheartened to find that there was little support for David. Jackie recalled:

“Initially, it felt like we were going through the motions of being referred to different organisations without any real progress being made.

It felt as though all of these organisations, Social Services included, were willing to offer me help but when I asked for specific things it became a real struggle to find anything specific that the organisations would be able to help with.”

With David’s health declining, and his problems with speech and health growing, Jackie sought other avenues. As a former employee of Citizens Advice Bureau, she remembered AUKMST and reached out to our Outreach Service. She found having access to support which would visit her home invaluable, especially as David’s worsening health meant that his mobility was restricted.

“I knew about Age UK, but I didn’t know about the breadth and depth of support they offer. Thanks to the team at AUKMST, David was able to get attendance allowance and was also put forward for a blue badge. AUKMST’s team were so friendly, and were able to help us complete paperwork in a way that ensured we got the support we were entitled to. It’s hard to think with that precision when you’re experiencing your worst possible day, but they help you to do it.”

It wasn’t just David who was eligible for Attendance Allowance - Jackie received it too. This had a huge impact on her life, transforming her experience as David’s sole care partner.

“Thanks to the support from AUKMST, I was able to access funding for private carers to help me with David. It didn’t stop all of my caring responsibilities, but it meant that I had more time to do things like go for coffee with friends. It also helped me to ensure David got the best possible care for things I was unable to help him with.”

When David passed away, Jackie was so inspired by the support she received from AUKMST that she made a donation to the organisation to support them with continuing their work. Now pro-active within her own social circles, Jackie has become an ambassador for the work that Age UK do and the difference that their work has on people's lives.

“I’ve picked up a lot through the help AUKMST offered me. People don’t realise that attendance allowance starts from the date of your application, for example – meaning that you often receive a back payment when your application is approved. I don’t think people know just how much AUKMST can do. They can check what other benefits you are eligible for, too. It’s a lot more than just attendance allowance. They can support with things like Pension Credit, too. People think they’re not entitled to things. They frown about it and think it’s something to do with being on the dole but it isn’t at all. It makes a huge difference when people get that little bit of help.”

Jackie closed her interview with this remark:

“I can’t speak highly enough of AUKMST. There are lots of organisations out there, but Age UK are my go-to for the practical support they give.”

In the UK it is estimated that as many as 16% of the population aged 65+ are unpaid carers.

Attendance Allowance, Blue Badges and the other benefits mentioned in Jackie’s story can make a huge difference to individuals’ quality of life. Please get in touch with our team to find out more about how we can help you.