benefits in hospital

Does anyone know if someone detained in hosptial under a mental health section can claim benefits? In this case the person has been transferred from prison under S47 of the Mental Health Act.

It is possible to get benefits whilst in hospital, but only for a limited amount of time. I don't know the details off the top of my head (I think it's a year for IB/IS and a month for DLA, but that's just from memory when I was in hospital). I'll take a look and see what I can find, although maybe one of my fellow mods with more knowledge will pick it up anyway.

Which benefits does this relate to?

Basically, the person has no money and is looking for any possible support. ESA or IS possibly.

I've just taken a look. I'm not sure what the situation is. I'll ask my fellow mods if any understands it better than I do or whether we're going to have to advise you to seek independent advice.

I've had a rummage around and found something else. It seems like there may be an entitlement to pocket money. www.bipsolutions.com/docstore/pdf/13147.pdf