Billy's Story

Billy (name changed for confidentiality) is a 64 year old male who lives with his wife in an adapted rented property They were referred to the dementia service as he has recently been diagnosed with memory problems. He has several additional mental health issues as well as shakes and poor short term memory. Both Billy and his wife are in receipt of benefits and pensions, but he was refused Personal Independence Payment (PIP) pending appeal.

They are trying to move into supported accommodation with a strong preference for somewhere that is familiar and has nearby amenities and links to their community. However, they were allocated to another residence where their daughter worked. This was not acceptable.

Initially, we advised that we could help with the PIP appeal and look into the housing situation. We identified possible eligibility for a council tax exemption for severe mental impairment, pension credits, higher rate benefits and the need for lasting power of attorney needs to be started imminently, with Billy’s son as his appointee. The family were referred for carer support and Billy was referred to the befriending service.

Billy was successful in his PIP appeal and his award was backdated to the original claim. They also claimed for severe disability premium, pension credits, carers allowance for his son and council tax severe mental impairment for 25% discount. His son now has Lasting Power of Attorney in place, if Billy loses capacity. We challenged the housing issue and Billy was rehoused and is thriving. They are much happier and are now extremely settled with the care package and support they didn’t realise they needed.

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