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Other Useful Information

Other Useful Information

Last checked: March 2026

We hope you will find most information you are looking for in the sections for:

Some information that we have been asked for does not ‘fit’ anywhere in particular. We don’t want to lose it as it could be useful for other people:

Last checked:  March 2026

We are sometimes asked for advice about protecting children’s and adults’ financial futures – in particular so that their benefits are not affected. This is a very complex topic. Solutions are very individual and need professional legal advice. However it is helpful to have some idea of what possibilities there are.

Our thanks to Matthew James Billingsley of South West Wills and Probate Ltd for providing this guidance document for families living in England & Wales.   Read More>
  • Scope> also outlines how using a trust can work.
  • Contact > covers wills and trusts.
November 2025: Contact launched a new, Child Trust Fund Advice Flowchart >  aimed at simplifying the steps for families of disabled young people attempting to access their Child Trust Fund (CTF) Savings > You can use this flowchart wherever you live in the UK.

The topic is covered on this Law Society page > If you scroll to the bottom, you can look for a law firm with the expertise you are looking for near you.

Last checked: January 2026

There are links to relevant sources of information, advice and support in the different sections of Living With SMA.

Sometimes you may need extra advice, support or legal advice.  The website links below for some organisations may be useful.

We may be able to find other sources of support depending on where you live and your individual circumstances: contact SMA UK’s Support Team >.

Advice & Advocacy Services:

Advocacy involves another person:

  • assisting you to find information you need
  • supporting you to express your views and wishes
  • supporting you to stand up for your rights.

An advocate is there to support your choices. Some advocates are in paid roles, others are volunteers.

ACAS > (Advisory, Conciliation, and Arbitration Service): advice and guidance on a range of employment related subjects for both employers and employees.

Advicelocal > information relating to: welfare benefits and tax credits; council tax, including exemptions and discounts; debt and money advice; housing and homelessness; employment and work issues; disability and social care; asylum and immigration. Search by postcode and topic for links to information for your area, including details of independent advice organisations.

Citizens Advice (CA) > online information and advice on a range of issues including benefits, work, money, housing and the legal system.

Voiceability – NHS Complaints Advocacy > a free and independent service which supports patients in complaining about their NHS care.

Legal Advice & Services:

Law Centres Network > law centres across England for people who cannot afford a lawyer – specialising in social welfare law, covering issues such as Welfare rights, Disability rights, Community care and more. All offer face-to-face advice to local residents and some run a phone advice line.

The following provide information about legal aid and how to find a solicitor:

Coram Children’s Legal Centre > – free legal representation to children, young people and families across many areas of civil law in the UK. They also operate Child Law Advice Service > for specialist advice and information on child, family and education law to parents, carers and young people in England.

Council for Disabled Children: Case Law Directory > – provides essential updates on the latest judicial decisions affecting disabled children and young people and those with Special Educational Needs – education, health, housing, social care and more.