I have had Polycythaemia vera (PV) since 2022 and someone mentioned to me about claiming Attendance Allowance. I must admit recently I have become quite depressed as I do get so tired especially after lunch and cannot do things I would like such as housework etc and woukd like a cleaner but cannot afford it. Also if I shower my legs really itch, not a little itch but lots so puts me off showering so I strip wash. I know I am luckier than a lots of people but when I think this is a life time condition I am get really upset. Hope someone on here can help thank you xx
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Good afternoon @Lucky50
Thank you for posting on the forum.
I’m sorry to learn about your circumstance, it must be quite challenging.
My understanding regarding attendance allowance is that you can apply via the Gov.uk website and it does give guidance on there to allow you to find out if you would be able to claim.
I have Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and I therefore can relate to being tired in the afternoon, not so much after lunch, more around 4 or 5pm for me, and I often drop off for 30 minutes or so (I call it my power nap), and you mentioned your condition being life long so again I can relate somewhat.
You mentioned feeling depressed and also having itchy legs, so I’m hopeful you will seek support for both.
Do take good care
Mike
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Hello @Lucky50
We are so sorry to hear about your diagnosis and how you are feeling although it is completely understandable to feel this way.
You might find our ‘Blood cancer: money and work’ page helpful. This includes information on benefits and other financial support. It also contains information on other help you might be able to access, such as one-off grants and help paying bills.
In case it is helpful in any way, the organisation Turn2us are a national charity providing support and information on financial issues. They have a benefits calculator to help you understand what benefits you may be entitled to: benefits-calculator.turn2us.org.uk. You can also search for grants, which do not have to be paid back, here: grants-search.turn2us.org.uk.
For most benefits you can either apply online, or request an application pack to be sent in the post. It can often be helpful to alert your GP, haematology team or clinical nurse specialist team (CNS) that you’re applying for benefits, so that they can write a letter of support for your application.
You can request support with filling in application forms, or get more information to help you understand which benefits you may be entitled to, by contacting Citizens Advice. There’s information on their website about benefits if you’re sick, disabled or caring for someone who is, which you may find helpful.
For further information about attendance allowance, please see the Gov’s page - Attendance Allowance: Eligibility - GOV.UK
We also have a page on Looking after yourself with PV | Blood Cancer UK which may be helpful as it discusses managing fatigue, itching and other ways that may help to make you feel better.
Our Blood cancer: mind and emotions | Blood Cancer UK page may also be useful as it has some advice on looking after our wellbeing.
If you would like to talk anything through with a member of our support team, please do get in touch on 0808 2080 888.
Take care,
Emma (support services nurse)
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