North West Norfolk MP James Wild is welcoming the speeding up of benefits help for those with terminal illnesses.
It means those nearing the end of their life will get fast-tracked help to Universal Credit and other support from April 4 this year.
This comes after a campaign by the Motor Neurone Disease Association and Marie Curie Cancer Care.
Under the new rules, people who are thought to be in their final year of life will be able to receive vital support through the ‘Special Rules’, six months earlier than they are able to at present. Those who are eligible will not be subject to face-to-face assessment or waiting periods, and in the majority of cases, they will receive the highest rate of benefits.
Speaking after the announcement James said: “This very welcome reform will ensure that people in the final year of their life get faster access to much needed financial support. People suffering terminal illnesses will be able to spend time with family and friends and not have the added stress of worrying about their finances. I have been pleased to support the efforts of the MND Association and other groups across West Norfolk and the country who have supported this campaign.”