Support with claiming benefits you are entitled to

Our financial wellbeing and tenancy sustainment teams work with colleagues to provide customers with support in checking eligibility and applying for benefits. It can be a complex process and many people aren’t aware of what they are entitled to.

Recently, the team supported Mr and Mrs B who got in touch with their neighbourhood officer to ask for support with redecorating their bungalow as they were not able to do this themselves and couldn’t afford to hire a professional.

After speaking with the couple, we confirmed they were receiving their State Pension and Mrs B was in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA). Whilst this was enough to live on, they had very little extra.

The team supported Mr B to apply for Attendance Allowance (AA) as his health had declined over the last few years. They also helped Mrs B to have her DLA award reviewed as she was on the lower amount. After supporting them and completing forms on their behalf the couple were award AA and an increase in the DLA payments. This also resulted in them being entitled to Pension Credit.

In total the couple received over £5,800 in backdated payments and will now receive just over an extra £18,000 a year in benefits income for the rest of their lives.

The couple have had their bungalow professionally redecorated throughout and are incredibly grateful to the team for the difference they have made to their lives.

If you would like any advice, support or guidance with claiming benefits then our team are on hand to help. You can contact them by calling the Contact Centre on 0333 400 8222.