Client is in her mid 50’s with long term health problems. She is a social tenant and a victim of domestic violence. Client had been turned down for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and needed help with an appeal. Client very distressed with loss of income, which has contributed towards her falling into rent arrears. Adviser helped client with appeal paperwork and arranged for a letter of support from GP and Women’s Aid. We maintained contact with the client and were able to help her prepare for the appeal interview and attended the appeal hearing with her. The appeal was successful, resulting in increasing her Employment Support Benefit to £73.50 per week, an additional amount of £26.75, for the limited capability for work decision. Additionally, an underpayment of £1653.64 lump sum was paid into her bank. This has helped the client reduce her rent arrears substantially, thus removing the treat of eviction. In addition the adviser contacted a local charity on behalf of the client, resulting in the Buckingham Foundation providing £100 in additional help.
