General Chat

In that case............. we will be neither nor better off.

Wasn't aimed at anyone in particular, Lyndi, it was a general comment about a prevalent attitude unfortunately perpetrated by the right wing media.

The number playing the benefit system is very small compared to the numbers making millions by playing the tax system.

The local councils can only spend what the government allows them to.

It is also the government who set the requirements for carers' allowances and other benefits.

Carers allowance is £62.10 as from 6 .4.2015

As a higher rate tax payer I would willingly pay more to help those in genuine need - and there are ''many'' people who fall into this category. Sadly, I do not believe that the Conservatives care one little bit about those in ''genuine need' and for that reason alone, they did not receive my vote. Now that the Liberals have departed and the Conservatives take charge, all I can say is look out, particularly if you need help.

Dear All

Hello

This bothers me:

Depending on what sources you check, between 4 to 7 BILLION pounds
of benefits go unclaimed.

That is an awful lot of money that could help so many.

So I think cutting benefits, is a ludicrous idea.


For many of who are worried and upset, please try and remember that
much can be done by seeking good advice and looking up support groups.


I think this is a time when you have to hold on tight, be calm and
keep focused on what is needed for yourself and your family to manage.


Take gentle care all
With many good wishes
Love Elizabeth, EOS
xx

Well I voted Conservative but not for me, me as I don't see how I will benefit financially. I've no stomach for seeing Labour give, give by borrowing and debt anymore. I've seen it all before and anyone can do that. Every time the following government has to be unpopular because the purse strings have to be tightened to try and sort it out.

I agree with you Elizabeth that it is a concern that so much is unclaimed, but it isn't a new problem. Decades ago when I used to help people make claims, people were too proud to claim and a lot of older people, especially those who lived through the war have a 'make do and manage' mentality and just feel they have no right to take what they see as charity. They grew up without handouts thinking that there were always people worse off than themselves. They also worry about getting into trouble if they claim something they shouldn't.

I have elderly in laws in their 80s and 90s, both disabled and one showing signs of dementia. Our biggest problem has not been getting them help and aids, it has been getting them to claim them and then keep them! It took years to get them to claim pension credit. They were suspicious of anything free and they tried to get a loan for a new boiler when it went rather than be convinced by us that they could get a free one. I must admit that we have been astonished by all the help they have had up to now. A new boiler and first service, council tax paid, a ramp fitted to the front door, handrails fitted in the rooms, a stairlift recently fitted, aids to help them get out of bed. A shower and cubicle is being installed shortly. They have individual perching stools and walkers to use. They had a cleaner and someone to help them wash and dress, but because they had a few good days they cancelled them!! They get fuel allowance and cold weather payments, but we are freezing in their house because they don't have the radiators on. Not because they can't afford it, but because they never had it when they were younger and don't see the need for it. We are still trying to get them to claim attendance allowance. I'm afraid you can't force people to have what they are entitled to.