Our supporters
Thank you to everyone that has supported Torbay Advice Network so far. We could not provide any of our services or help those in need without your assistance.
Who we’ve helped
We have worked with a range of individuals and voluntary organisations in Torbay to help them make key decisions. A few of them wanted to share their experiences:
Case study 1:
The client came to us in October 2017 having been unable to work due to sickness for several months and receiving Employment Support Allowance (ESA).
They had been volunteering at Torbay Domestic Abuse Service and had been offered a job there, so wanted to know if they’d be entitled to any more benefits or if they’d be better off remaining as a volunteer.
We calculated that they’d be eligible for Working Tax Credits and some help with rent and council tax. Their income would be higher if they worked, so they decided to accept the job.
They’ve been a Support Worker at TDAS for over a year, and often refer their clients to our service to help them make informed decisions.
Case study 2:
This client describes themselves as an alcoholic. Their entire income was from the Employment and Support Allowance and Housing Benefit. When they moved into new accommodation, they received a bill from EDF for £1040, because they hadn’t informed the energy company that they were a new tenant.
We supported the client by calling the supplier, registering at the new address and arranging for a key prepayment meter to be fitted and the subsequent bill to be quashed.
We also helped the client apply for Council Tax Support, which they didn’t know they were entitled to.
Case study 3:
This client has severe hip pain following an unsuccessful replacement surgery and suffers from depression.
They contacted us after failing a Work Capability Assessment for Employment and Support Allowance, as well as a Mandatory Reconsideration which was unsuccessful.
We stepped in and helped the client complete relevant appeal forms, and ended up being making a successful claim at the hearing.
Case study 4:
This client had been receiving the standard rate of PIP for mobility and daily living. However, when they reported that the condition was deteriorating and was re-assessed, they only scored four points so their award was discontinued.
We offered the client advice during a mandatory reconsideration, where they were successful. PIP was reinstated, as well as the backpay they were entitled to.
Case study 5:
The client contacted us after their PIP was turned down. We helped them gather key medical information and liaising with the DWP.
This supporting information caused the DWP to reinstate their PIP payments, backdate it and set a review for three years time.
The client said that the process had a significant impact on their emotional stability, and was very glad they didn’t have to wait for a tribunal, which could take months.
Testimonials
“I have struggled with money for a long time, but John helped me sort things out”
“John helped me fill in lots of forms for me, and explained everything to me.”
“I have spent years not really understanding the benefits I was entitled to, but now I feel as though I understand them far better.”
“Your advisor was really helpful to me. I found him to be very polite and a caring person. I would recommend him to anyone needing help and support.”
“I am very satisfied and happy now I can live a normal life and feel good to get up in the mornings. I thank all concerned again.
“We were impressed with the friendly and very helpful advice. As you get older, stress is best avoided where possible and form filling is not easy.”
“The support I received from John has been excellent, without him I would not have been able to complete my PIP form. He also attended the assessment with me and helped me feel calmer and less anxious and supported me throughout.”
“I received excellent support, professional, knowledgeable and friendly. I felt very reassured.”