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SNIPPETS

WORKING PEOPLE WHO ARE DISABLED

From October 1999 a new Disabled Person's Tax Credit (DPTC) will replace Disablity Working Allowance (DWA) which has too low an earnings threshold for many low-paid workers to claim. The DPTC will raise the net earnings threshold for couples to £90 instead of £77.15 and for single people to £70 instead of £57.85. These are called 'applicable amounts'. If your income is above your applicable amount, you will deduct 55% of your extra income from the maximum DWA for your family with the new DPTC (as compared to 70% with DWA). 70% of child care costs will be paid.

It remains to be seen whether the extra money will be whisked away in the form of decreased Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. From October 1998 people on long-term Incapacity Benefit who move into work will have a year's grace to return to the previous benefit level if the job does not work out. You can also work more than 16 hours on a voluntary basis while still receiving Incapacity Benefit.

THE CAMELOT FOUNDATION

The Camelot Foundation welcomes applications for small grants (usually up to £5000) and they particularly seek applications from organisations controlled by disabled people.

Further information from:

The Camelot Foundation
One Derby Street
London, W8 5HY.

Tel 0171 937 5594
Minicom 0171 937 5471