Ben, a young man with a learning disability came to us for advice accompanied by a close relative. His mother usually accompanied him, but she had sadly passed away leaving Ben struggling to cope with life alone. Ben was finding living alone difficult, especially as he couldn’t afford to pay the rent for his home where he had lived for most of his life. This made him stressed and anxious. He wasn’t receiving any support from the property management company and didn’t know where to turn. In desperation he came to Citizens Advice for help.
Our adviser tried to reassure Ben and first helped Ben to make an application for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) which the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) previously denied him. He had believed the decision of the DWP was final and was relieved to learn that he could apply again.
The new application was successful, and this helped Ben, knowing that he had financial support for the future which he now faced alone.
The adviser then worked closely with the property management company and secured a property that was both suitable and affordable for Ben.
Ben’s extended family were incredibly grateful for all the help and support, enabling Ben to live independently, free from worry and with the space to finally grieve.
All stories have been given different names and certain details have been omitted or changed to preserve their anonymity.