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Case Study: Mrs P

Mrs P lives with her husband Mr M and are in receipt of basic benefits.

Following many years of dialysis, Mr M had a kidney transplant in March 2023 and has experienced ongoing issues, including incontinence, which has caused increased washing of bedding and clothing, in addition Mrs P suffers from OCD which means she is constantly washing her hands, prior to Covid she was regular being supported by a psychologist.

In January P was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and due to an error relating to their housing benefit, M’s disability payment ceased, and their UC reduced. The reduction to their income, added to the additional expenditure e.g. hospital appointments has impacted negatively on their ability to manage their finances and they have been using credit cards for essential expenses.

Application has been completed with the support of a Macmillan cancer support adviser at Maggie’s, who are working with the couple to maximise their income, this including consulting with their energy provider, investigating energy and water saving options and the reinstatement of appropriate benefits.

Mrs P still has a long way to go, she is currently undergoing chemotherapy and will then require surgery and radiotherapy.

To support the family during a difficult period the metered account has been cleared to date, support tariff band three has been applied and they have been referred to the Priority Service Register.

In addition, the assessor has sent them details of the Kidney Care UK charity.

Outcome: Approved water grant @ £635.67 (metered)/BOT band 3 applied/PSR & Kidney care UK referrals