Money Matters Statement 2016-2019 first edition | Page 6

Case Study 1

Case Study 2

“In April 2013 we were
affected by the bedroom
tax. We really wanted to
transfer or exchange to a
smaller property to avoid
the reduction in our Housing
Benefit, but had been told
that due to our arrears that it
wasn’t possible.

“I’m really grateful for the
help AmicusHorizon gave
me. My partner was in really
bad health. At the time we
weren’t claiming any disability
benefits and didn’t know
where to turn.

Even with the downsizing payment it
wouldn’t have been enough to clear
the arrears. The debt on our account
had built up over many years where
both my husband and I had been in
and out of work and on and off of
benefits and we’d struggled to make
ends meet.
The Financial Inclusion Officer
suggested we’d apply for a
Discretionary Housing Payment. She
came to our home and filled out the
application form with us. The money
was awarded and we are now bidding
on smaller properties. Without this
help we would still be in the same
situation for many years to come. It
hasn’t only helped us, but it will mean
that we’re able to free up our larger
home for a family that needs it too”

I saw through AmicusHorizon’s
website, they had people that could
help with benefits and support. I
spoke to the Financial Inclusion
Officer (FIO) who was polite and
friendly. She straight away offered to
help and came to see me.
The officer helped me complete a
disability living allowance application
form. This helped loads!
I was so pleased when we get
our award and received the right
payments. We also got it backdated.
I wasn’t expecting this so it was a nice
surprise.
It’s not just the DLA form...the FIO has
appealed an overpayment of pension
credit and completed an application
for extra help towards my electric
on the warm home discount scheme.
This’ll definitely help me through the
winter!”

Money Matters Statement 2016-2019