‘Five Council’ Proposal Public Consultation

‘Five Council’ Proposal Public Consultation

Have your say on the future of councils in Essex.  Councils across Greater Essex are seeking public input on plans to replace the current Local Authority structure with fewer, larger unitary councils. 

Have your say in the consultation here

Severely Mentally Impaired (SMI)

If someone who lives with you has been diagnosed with a severe mental impairment (SMI) that affects intelligence and social functioning (for example, dementia, Parkinson’s, profound learning difficulties, severe stroke) you may be entitled to a discount. It will depend on each person's individual case and simply having been diagnosed with one of these conditions doesn't automatically qualify for the discount - a doctor must certify that the individual is 'severely mentally impaired'. 

You can receive:

  • a 25% discount if the impairment is confirmed by a GP and the impaired person receives certain benefits. 

The benefits are:

  • Short-term or long-term Incapacity Benefit
  • Employment and Support Allowance
  • Attendance Allowance
  • Severe Disablement Allowance
  • The highest or middle-rate care component of Disability Living Allowance
  • Personal Independence Payment Daily Living Component (standard or enhanced rate)
  • An increase in Disablement Pension for constant attendance
  • The disability element of Working Tax Credit
  • Unemployability Supplement
  • Constant Attendance Allowance payable under the Industrial Injuries or War Pension schemes
  • Armed Forces Independence Payment
  • Income Support which includes a disability premium because of incapacity for work
  • Universal Credit
     

When you apply for this discount, you will be asked to provide:

  • proof that the benefit is being received
  • a certificate, signed by a GP, to confirm the impairment

 

You do not have to provide these documents now - you can make an application first and attach them later using our online documents upload form.
 

Apply for a SMI Discount