An award-winning scheme has helped thousands of Glasgow patients with long-term illness, like heart failure claim extra benefits worth £20million.

The project, launched two years ago, co-ordinates care, support and practical advice from a range of organisations across the city.

The aim is to allow patients to focus on health and recovery without worrying about their financial situation.
Since it was set up in February 2010, the Long Term Conditions Scheme has helped more than 6000 people in the city suffering from heart disease, strokes, chest conditions and cystic fibrosis.

It brings together the City Council, Macmillan Cancer Support, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, the Pension Service, Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland, Glasgow Housing Association and Job Centre Plus.

The scheme was launched as a pilot but has been continued as a core service by the council and many of its partners.
Council treasurer Paul Rooney explained:
"Targeted support for Glasgow's most vulnerable citizens is a key council priority.   Ill health can have a major effect on a family's income and can even threaten their home.
By offering focused support that takes into account the customer's condition; we can help them to concentrate solely on getting better.    Everyone involved is absolutely committed to helping them look after not only their health, but also their wealth, when they face serious illness."

Although diagnosis of a serious illness can have an enormous impact on someone's income, the team has found many do not realise they are eligible for financial help.

As well as identifying the welfare benefits and hardship grants to which patients may be entitled, workers also help patients fill in the complex forms and will appeal if a client's application is unsuccessful.
Staff from every agency in the partnership also provide help to carers and families.

Source:   Evening Times