Resident wins back benefits with support from Money Matters

A tenant living with cancer has regained her Personal Independence Payment (PIP), thanks to the support of the Money Matters team.

Jennifer* lost her PIP benefits earlier this year after a review by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).

Katie Bligh, Money Matters

Despite the impact of ongoing cancer treatment on Jennifer’s physical and mental health, the DWP scored her zero on her assessment, ending her payments.

Feeling unable to face an appeal, Jennifer was on the verge of giving up, but with the support of Katie Bligh from the Money Matters team, she decided to pursue her claim.

The appeal was lodged by Katie and scheduled for November. In the meantime, without PIP, Jennifer was having to manage with £700 less income per month, so Katie was able to get her two Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) to help her cover costs like rent and heating.

When the date of the appeal came round, Katie went with Jennifer to the Tribunal Service to offer her support and to speak to the judge to help her case.

Thankfully, Jennifer won her appeal and had her PIP payments reinstated at the enhanced rate. She will also receive a backdated payment of several thousand pounds – just in time for Christmas.

She can now pay her rent shortfall and heat her home without worrying this winter.

Katie said: “This was a great outcome after a very stressful few months for this tenant. Helping tenants who have been turned down for disability benefit is a significant part of the work we do in the Money Matters team, as the process can be difficult to go through without support.

“I always like to remind our tenants that they can reach out for support from our team if they find themselves in a situation like this.”

If you need support or are struggling with your finances, please contact our Money Matters team today.

*Name changed to protect the tenant’s privacy.