Issues with council
Comments
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I am very sorry to hear about the financial difficulties you and your wife are experiencing due to the unexpected stoppage of your benefits, especially since your circumstances have not changed. As disabled pensioners relying on state pensions, it is deeply troubling that you are facing challenges in getting support from the LBBD.
It’s unfortunate that you did not provide the information Poppy requested, as her extensive knowledge of the benefits system could have been very helpful to you.
You didn’t mention whether you have any family members who could offer support. While I do not have knowledge of the benefits system, I understand it can be very complex. Like Floof, I strongly recommend seeking help from your local councillor, in matters such as these they are better placed to support you than your MP. They can advocate on your behalf with the council and work to resolve the issues you are facing.
Councillors are there to provide support and advice to individuals within their community. They can help residents navigate local services, access support, and resolve issues with council services, including housing problems, benefits issues, and other local authority matters.
However, it’s essential that you provide your councillor with all the necessary documentation so they can effectively assist you in resolving this situation as quickly as possible. Wishing you and your wife all the best.
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I've made it clear in 2 previous comments on this thread. You've responded on the thread but have failed to answer these questions every time. [Removed by moderator]
Apart from state pension what other benefits exactly are you both claiming?
Are either of you receiving any other pensions? (apart from state pension)
Do either of you have any savings/capital? do you own any properties that you don’t live in?
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See Poppy's reply above.
Understanding why the housing benefit and council tax reduction were stopped is vital to identify the underlying issue. The decision letter should detail the reasons and any potential errors or changes in circumstances that led to the benefit cessation. Knowing all the benefits being claimed helps Poppy assess your complete financial situation, as some benefits might affect eligibility for others or indicate changes that need to be addressed.
Details about additional pensions are also important, as they can impact benefit eligibility and amounts. Similarly, savings or other properties are taken into account when determining benefit eligibility, with higher levels of capital or additional properties potentially influencing your financial support assessment.
By gathering this information, Poppy will be better equipped to offer accurate advice.
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I do not believe Thunderbird’s post is rude. It’s important to consider the context and the challenges Thunderbird is facing, rather than focusing on the perceived tone. When people are stressed or confused, their reactions might come across as brusque or impatient, even if they do not intend to be disrespectful.
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Yes very true I've felt that myself
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Thunderbird, I suggest you paste and copy these concerns into a new thread because it's losing shape here…
I want to add that my neighbour only became ill when these documents began arriving. She was mobile, witty, bright and independent and went into decline sharply.
Also that my own HB/CTB claim was mismanaged under the new IT system and the paperwork that followed is staggering. Claimants of working-age are being denied entitlement and their lives turned upside down but this must be so much harder for you as pensioners to deal with.
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Poppy, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for everything you do. Despite your own challenges, you consistently dedicate countless hours and effort to supporting others. Please do not let any negative comments affect you. Your unwavering support and positive presence in our community are immensely valuable and inspiring to many of us. Your generosity, kindness, and compassion truly make a difference. Thank you for all that you do.
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I'm very saddened to see an adverse comment against poppy whom many of us know helps many people here, particularly where benefits are concerned.
I think we all appreciate that @Thunderbird has had a very difficult time trying to sort this all out, & everyone has tried to be supportive.
The only thing I can think of personally as perhaps possibly being helpful, is that you can check what your Council tax band should be here: & see what supporting evidence you need to challenge this here:
With my previous home I was in a similar situation, & found we were being charged for the next higher band rate. This was many years ago, & we were able to show the price we'd initially paid for our home to prove we were wrongly paying the higher rate. It seems you also have documentation. Apologies if you've already tried this.
I think @Thunderbird - that whilst everything is clear to you, & we all believe you, as you have posted in several places about the problems you face, it's not as clear to some of us as it is to you.
Try poppy's advice of seeking some local advice:
to see if there's a Welfare Rights Office able to help, or, if you now have a new MP, approach them. Put everything in writing, keeping it as clear & concise as possible laying out just the facts.
Posts are closed @WhatThe when members don't adhere to the House rules, or when it's wise to do so at the online moderators discretion. I do so wish that comments that are personal attacks (without any foundation) would also be quickly removed.
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I wasn't going to comment again on this thread but I have some thank you's to give so that's the reason for my return here.
@Catherine21 @AKR @MW123 thank you all for your kind comments and your support, it means a lot. It's members like yourself and the wonderful friends I've made here that encourage me to return each day.
Some people can be really harsh and it's very upsetting. I always say you should treat people the way you want to be treated yourself.
Edit to add a thank you to @chiarieds too, I didn't see your comment before I posted.
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The kindest people are ones who help others and ask for noting in return pretty special if you ask me x
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Oh good grief. Maybe this is why people leave. What is a little briskness between friends. I mean come on, you're talking to a pal in the pub and he doesn't seem to get you….
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Poppy 123456 is indispensable on this site - other commenters, not so much. Thunderbird, the reason she needs specific answers is because that's how the system works. Facts not feelings unfortunately.
One thing may be helpful for you, I got full council tax support for 7 years up until last year. Now I have to pay in full because my circumstances no longer meet Somerset Council criteria. My circumstances haven't changed, their rules for awarding council tax support have since they went bankrupt. Any capital over £6000 no longer qualifies for any relief.
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I understand that briskness can be common among friends and part of friendly banter. However, in an online forum where non-verbal cues are absent, comments can easily be misinterpreted. It’s crucial to maintain a respectful tone to ensure everyone feels valued and supported.
When conversations become confrontational or involve personal attacks, such as calling someone rude, it can drive people away and harm the sense of community. Such interactions can create a hostile environment, making members feel uncomfortable and potentially leading them to leave. Let’s focus on thoughtful communication to keep the forum welcoming and constructive, encouraging everyone to stay and participate.
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Where possible we like all discussions to continue, but we’re choosing to pause this discussion for now so things can cool down and we can review it. For more information, please read our online community house rules.
We will review it and if we are satisfied the discussion can continue, we will hope to un-pause it by tomorrow.
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