HC Deb 12 January 1987 vol 108 cc122-3W
Mr. Rooker

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services on what basis payments in respect of elderly people in private residential care are made to landlords after a person's death.

Mr. Lyell

Benefit entitlement ceases at death. When a person dies before obtaining payment of benefit due for the period prior to death, that benefit may on application be paid or distributed to, or amongst, persons over the age of 16 claiming as personal representatives, legatees, next of kin or creditors of the deceased. It is possible for a proprietor of a residential care home to claim as a creditor where there were unmet accommodation charges at the time of death.