For nearly 20 years Tamara’s and Sean’s flat had been more than just a place to live – it was their sanctuary and filled with memories. But when the rent suddenly increased beyond their means, the couple who were in their sixties and seventies, found themselves facing the heart-breaking possibility of losing their home. The mounting financial pressures, alongside their declining health, meant they needed help before the situation got out of control.
When they moved into their privately-rented two-bedroom flat it was affordable, and their Housing Benefit helped cover the rent, but a change in the landlord’s situation meant their monthly rent went up significantly. They began paying with credit cards each month just to cover the deficit. They would repay their loans when they could, only to borrow again the next month. The stress the cycle caused was overwhelming and completely unsustainable especially as their health worsened.
Tamara suffered from severe joint problems and was in constant pain. She and Sean slept in different bedrooms in an attempt to get a restful night’s sleep as Tamara’s discomfort and mobility issues made sharing a bed extremely difficult. After a stint in hospital, Sean’s health also meant that he did not sleep well.
The two bedrooms were essential to accommodate their conditions.
Sadie, their adult daughter, lived outside the UK but was forced to return to help with their situation and daily tasks they couldn’t manage. She tried to get Housing Benefit adjustments to help with the rent, but apart from a small discretionary payment, there was no long-term solution.
“It was a very, very stressful situation and I was not able to sleep. I was thinking and thinking and thinking: what happens to them? What if they become homeless?” she said.
“I don’t know how they could live in a shelter house.”
To qualify for the higher benefit rate for the two-bedroom property, they had to show that both bedrooms were medically necessary.
Sadie was hitting a brick wall trying to contact their GP for this evidence. Out of desperation she sought an appointment with one of our outreach advisers at Burnt Oak Library.
Danielle took on the case and quickly worked to obtain the medical documentation Sadie had been waiting months for from the GP. Thanks to her persistence, the GP finally provided the evidence needed to confirm her mother’s medical condition.
“When the Citizens Advice Barnet is involved, it’s very different from the individual. They’re kind of working like a lawyer for my parents. I really appreciate it,” Sadie said.
However, when the family tried again to secure Housing Benefit for a two-bedroom flat, the housing officer rejected their request, stating they were only entitled to a one-bedroom property.
Danielle didn’t accept this decision. The family had since applied for Attendance Allowance and received approval at the higher rate, confirming their eligibility for additional support. Danielle researched the rules and found clear evidence that elderly individuals on higher-rate Attendance Allowance qualified for a two-bedroom housing allowance. Armed with this information, Daniellele advocated directly with the housing officer, presenting the regulations and making a strong case for the couple.
Eventually Danielle’s efforts paid off. The housing officer reversed their decision, and the couple was granted the two-bedroom housing benefit they desperately needed.
Sadie was overwhelmed with relief.
“Without Citizens Advice Barnet, my parents would have lost their home. Danielle didn’t give up – she knew the rules and fought for them. Thanks to her, my parents can now afford their rent and live without the constant stress of borrowing money,” she said.
Thanks to the decision and Danielle’s efforts, Tamara and Sean now have what they’re entitled to.
“They [Citizens Advice Barnet] just don’t give up at the first answer they receive, … they fight for it [justice]. If they were not caring enough or didn’t pay attention enough, my parents wouldn’t be where they are now.”
If you’re struggling with housing or financial difficulties, Citizens Advice Barnet is there to help. Sometimes, all it takes is the right support to find a solution.
If you’re interested in supporting Citizens Advice Barnet to help people like Tamara and Sean, find out more how you can get involved.