Hi, my name is Shannonxmoran! Advocate and HB backpay

Shannonxmoran

hi last November I fell homeless I was 18 at the time and it’s my first time living on my own completely. I have severe mental health which has only been affected more since being in refuge and I’m not coping well at all. As I’ve never lived independently all of the housing payments ext I find it hard understanding, when I first moved here I was working but only the amount your allowed to work whilst claiming benefits this resulted in me being in £900 debt as housing benefit didn’t pay my first months rent due to me working which I don’t agree with as I was never making near the amount it costs to live in this place so I thought it would be back payed but apparently I’m wrong you might know the answer to that though, I have been told I need an advocate just someone to have my back and help me and I struggle on my own and I have no one in my corner as it’s refuge please can you get me back to me my [Removed by moderator - Personal information]

luvpink

Hi

Sorry I can't help with your queries but you have posted some personal details which could identify who you are.

@Rachel_Scope

Rachel_Scope

Hi @Shannonxmoran. I'm so sorry that you're struggling at the moment. If you'd feel better speaking to someone you can call our Helpline on 0808 800 3333.

Here is some information on finding an advocate that I hope is useful https://www.scope.org.uk/advice-and-support/get-help-from-an-advocate

Could you clarify a couple of things please regarding the Housing Benefit?

• You say they didn't pay your first months rent, is that because you were earning above the threshold?
• Did you apply for Housing Benefit after you had moved in?