Read Harriet’s story
Our partnership with Cambridge Citizens Advice has transformed the lives of many people who have had to visit our Foodbank. One such example of somebody who’s benefitted from the partnership is Harriet*.
Harriet is around 50 years old, is single and lives in council accommodation with her children. She suffers from poor mental health and long-term physical health issues. As a result, she has had to give up her job. She was referred to Cambridge Citizens Advise by Cambridge City Foodbank for urgent help and support as her family had no income other than Universal Credit (UC) and she had built up considerable debts.
Harriet explained to the adviser at their meeting at the Foodbank that, as her eldest daughter had just become an adult, Harriet would no longer be able to claim child-benefit for supporting her through UC. This change in the family’s circumstances was having a detrimental effect on Harriet’s mental state as she was becoming very anxious about how they would be able to cope with a reduced monthly income. As a first step, the advisor suggested to Harriet that her daughter make a claim for UC on her own behalf as soon as possible. She could then claim the additional Carer Element of UC as her mother’s health was deteriorating and badly affecting her mobility. The combination of this additional benefit would provide over £500 per month. There would also be the potential to increase this amount by making additional claims should her daughter be unable to undertake paid work (due to these caring responsibilities).
The adviser also offered to help Harriet with other benefit related issues she had been struggling to solve. These included seeking a reconsideration of a decision related to the amount she received for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and challenging a problem with her UC Limited Capability for Work status which had been adversely affecting her income.
The adviser next put together a budget sheet for Harriet to enable her to gain a clear picture of her available income. This involved a benefit calculation to ensure that Harriet was receiving all the support to which she was entitled. As a way of reducing her outgoings, the advisor pointed her towards methods of applying for cheaper tariffs for her water, energy and broadband which are designed to help families on low incomes.
In addition to the £500 boost to the family’s monthly income that the advisor had already helped secure, the advisor assured Harriet there was considerable potential for further improving her financial situation.
Harriet’s case illustrates the complexity of the benefit system and how contact with Cambridge Citizens Advice at one of our Foodbank Welcome Centres or Fairbite Food Clubs can bring about real improvements in the finances and well-being of a vulnerable person.
*Name changed to protect client’s identity