“I am not fighting alone anymore.”
*Helen first came to the Law Centre after being granted leave to remain. After years of uncertainty, she hoped this would be the moment when life became easier. Instead, she found herself in severe financial hardship, struggling to understand the benefits system and unsure where to turn for help.
Helen was receiving only £135 per month from Universal Credit. Incorrect deductions were being taken from her payments, she was not receiving the Housing Element she was entitled to, and she was not accessing other benefits that could support her.
“I had just got leave to remain, but I didn’t know what to do or who to talk to,” Helen said. “I had been fighting for my life for years just to exist. After getting leave to remain, it got even worse because I didn’tknow how to handle the things that were coming. I didn’t know the system.”
Helen was referred to Sneha at the Law Centre for benefits advice. Sneha carried out a full benefits review and identified several issues that needed to be addressed at the same time. She helped Helen challenge the incorrect Universal Credit deductions, secure the correct Housing Element, complete the UC50 Work Capability Assessment process, and apply for Personal Independence Payment.
For Helen, the support was not only practical. It also helped her feel less alone.
“When I started dealing with Sneha, she was the one that guided me through,” Helen said. “She explained how to deal with things. She was very straightforward, and I respect that. Sometimes she was direct, and I really respect that. She did a good job.”
Through this ongoing casework support, Helen’s financial situation changed completely. Her monthly income increased from £135 to over £1,400. She also received a back payment of £5,649.84.
The impact was immediate. Helen said she had never seen that amount of money in her bank account before. After months of stress and uncertainty, she finally had some stability and independence.
“Now I am thinking I would love to be more conscious about how to take care of myself,” Helen said. “I am not fighting alone anymore. I have guidance with what to go through. It is a learning process, but we passed the difficult time already. I am embracing the fact that I have got the chance to go far.”
Helen said she would encourage others in similar situations to seek advice and not be afraid to ask for help.
“I would recommend the Law Centre. I already told my sister when she had a problem. I told her about you, so people can be more aware of their rights.”
Reflecting on what she would say to others, Helen added:
“Tell people not to be afraid to fix their situation. There is a lot of fear, and not enough education. I would tell people to seek advice and approach the Law Centre. Seek help. It is never too late.”
Helen’s story shows how specialist benefits advice can transform someone’s life. By ensuring she received the support she was entitled to, the Law Centre helped Helen move from crisis and confusion towards stability, independence and hope.
*Name has been changed.