The benefits system can be notoriously tricky to understand and for this reason some elderly, vulnerable or disabled people may not be receiving all the benefits they are legally entitled to, which can have a major impact on their health, quality of life and wellbeing. The Money Carer Foundation regularly ‘sorts out’ historical benefit entitlements that have not been managed properly claimed or managed in the past.

On such example is ‘Angela,’ a middle aged client from London, who has a diagnosis of autism and also suffers from poor vision and hearing.

As Angel had been living in supported housing for many years, her care agency had assumed the role of her corporate appointee. Although the care provider delivered excellent care, they were not especially well informed on the benefits system, and this lack of knowledge led to Angela’s missing out on thousands of pounds in legal benefit entitlements over the years.

When The Money Carer Foundation became Angela’s new appointee in Angela was living off some private savings, which were, by then, greatly reduced.

After looking over Angela’s case, Money Carer realised she was eligible for employment support allowance along with other, enhanced entitlements. Money Carer also found the Department for Work and Pensions (DLA) had made an error which stopped Angela receiving Severe Disability Allowance (SDA), which she was entitled to. She is now also receiving her full welfare benefit entitlement and Money Carer was also able to claim a substantially back-dated SDA payment of over £10,000.

As such, MCF was able to support Angela to buy new bedroom furniture, a sofa, TV and sensory lighting for her home, improving her general happiness and wellbeing.