When life doesn't go to plan
"I was always on my feet, rushing around. I had a bad fall in 2012 and discovered I had osteoarthritis, which meant I wouldn’t be able to keep working at the hospital. When I retired in 2019, I decided to pursue a new career in commercial casting, something I’d always wanted to do. I registered with an agency, did some auditions and got a few jobs. The future was looking very promising – with the money, I planned to pay off my mortgage.
Then COVID-19 hit. The commercial jobs were all cancelled, my osteoarthritis deteriorated, I developed shingles and my small amount of savings dried up. It was a desperate, desperate time. I was trying to pay the bills with just my State Pension and didn’t know how to make ends meet. When the letters from the bank, energy company and other creditors started coming through saying, ‘You have to pay this much by this month – or else’, I was so frightened. I thought I was going to lose the flat."
Taking the first step
"Citizens Advice told me about Independent Age and said I should give them a call.
I didn’t know what to expect when I first called the Helpline. Would they judge me for being in this situation? Not at all – the advisers were so kind and helpful. They told me I was eligible for various benefits, including Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance and Council Tax Reduction. They also told me about simple aids that my local council could provide for free, like stair rails, bed risers and kitchen stools. They sent me all the forms I needed – and even helped me fill them in when there were questions I didn’t understand."
Life-changing support
"I can’t tell you how happy I was when I received the letter from the government saying I was entitled to an extra £600 a month. I wanted to jump with joy! The new equipment from the council has also helped so much. Simple aids like the recliner chair have made life much more comfortable – I’ve just had one knee operated on and the second knee will need surgery soon, too.
Independent Age gave me my dignity back. Without them, I think I’d be homeless. The Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance have really allowed me to keep a roof over our heads. After being so worried for so long, I can even dream again: when my knees heal, I plan to climb Mt Kilimanjaro!"
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"I never thought I would struggle. I am 72 and a half – I was looking forward to a bright life. I wouldn’t be here without Independent Age, I’d be homeless."
Thabani, Independent Age service user