“I felt more at ease and confident about my situation. Your support really took a load off my mind.”
At 67, *Robert was already navigating the daily challenges of life with disabilities when the rising cost of living turned his financial struggles into a crisis. Living on limited resources, he desperately needed support to access benefits that could provide a lifeline. But just when he thought things couldn’t get worse, a parking ticket arrived – unfairly issued despite his blue badge.
“I had gone into severe debt, and when I tried to seek advice from other organisations, I was given contrasting advice, with one advisor suggesting filing for bankruptcy, but then being told by another person, that this wasn’t an option since I’d soon qualify for a pension. I was so confused as I needed help now, and I did not understand what I should be doing. It felt hopeless.”
His attempt to dispute the fine was dismissed, with the added blow of being told the penalty would stay on his credit for six years unless he paid. The pressure was crushing. With no means to pay the ticket or address his mounting debts, Robert felt trapped in an unrelenting cycle of hardship.
“I had seriously started panicking. Even thinking about how I felt back then makes my heart race. I kept thinking, what if the bailiffs came to take my wheelchair? I was stressed.. and felt like I had no options.”
Robert’s health conditions made him especially vulnerable, and he desperately needed help to avoid a potential spiral of legal actions and financial instability. It was at this point that Robert was told about our Law Centres. After reaching out, Robert was connected with Ash, an experienced Money Advice caseworker, who listened to and carefully assessed Robert’s situation and quickly put together a strategy to address his immediate needs.
“My first conversation with Ash significantly eased my anxiety. He was incredibly knowledgeable, and it was obvious that he knew what he was doing. Each question I asked had a clear, immediate answer.”
Through expert advice, Ash helped Robert explore benefits he hadn’t known he was eligible for, including pension credit and housing benefit. The successful applications led to an increase in Robert’s annual income by £16,000, bringing a major relief from his financial burdens.
“I felt more at ease and confident about my situation. Your support really took a load off my mind. I still have ongoing issues, but taking care of this one helped me to focus on the rest.”
With Ash’s support, Robert has been able to take the essential steps towards resolving his financial situation. He now feels more secure, empowered, and hopeful about his future, knowing he has Law Centres and expert advice to rely on.
“To anyone else struggling like me or in my situation, I’d definitely say.. get help with the law centre. I hope it is as beneficial to others as it was for me”
Our Money Advice Team provides critical support to individuals across London, helping people like Robert find their footing during financially challenging times.
If you’re experiencing financial difficulties similar to Robert, we encourage you to get advice here. We are always here to help.
*Name has been changed