The Challenge

Anna (not her real name), a 65-year-old Brent Council tenant, lives alone and has been unable to work for several years due to ill health.

After a Work Capability Assessment by Universal Credit, she was told online that she was fit for work and required to seek employment for 35 hours per week. Anna strongly disagreed, as her health made full-time job searching impossible, leaving her anxious about potential sanctions.

“I had very little hope that the Department for Work and Pensions’ decision could be overturned.”

Our Approach

BHCAC’s caseworker supported Anna by:

  • Submitting a Mandatory Reconsideration, providing detailed grounds and medical evidence

  • Filing a First-Tier Tribunal appeal when the reconsideration upheld the original decision

  • Providing ongoing guidance and emotional support, including meetings and reassurance during bereavement

  • Preparing Anna for the hearing, ensuring all arguments and evidence were clear and compelling

The Outcome

The Tribunal allowed the appeal, granting Anna Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA), effective March 2021 to April 2022.

Financial Impact:

  • Additional £343 per month from Universal Credit

  • Backdated payment of over £4,000

  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP) awarded at standard Daily Living rate (£60 per week) with a backdated payment of £1,540

  • No longer required to seek work

The Impact

Anna’s financial hardship has been completely alleviated, and she now experiences stability, independence, and peace of mind.

“Thanks to the support I received, my hardship has been completely resolved. I am extremely happy with the outcome.”