At 56, with multiple serious health issues, Suraj was a man on the edge. His Universal Credit barely kept him afloat, but it was the wrongful denial of his Personal Independence Payment (PIP) that truly crushed his spirit.
It felt like they were saying I wasn't ill
he recalls, the pain of invalidation still fresh.
The rejection letter felt like an accusation, leaving him isolated, anxious, and losing hope for the future.
This is a story of a system that failed, and a second chance that changed everything.
Recognising the injustice, our dedicated team stepped in. They meticulously reviewed Suraj’s comprehensive medical evidence and prepared a robust case for a tribunal. Their work resulted in a powerful victory: the tribunal overturned the initial decision and awarded Suraj the higher rate for both Daily Living and Mobility components.
The change was immediate and life-altering. Suraj received a one-off, backdated payment of £11,402, a lifeline he desperately needed. His monthly income saw a vital boost of £737.20, a 35% increase that brought crucial stability.
Beyond the financial security, the support provided far-reaching benefits. The successful appeal also secured a five-year Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity status, removing the pressure of looking for work he wasn't well enough to do. He also received a Disabled Persons Freedom Pass, restoring a degree of mobility and independence that had been lost.
As Suraj powerfully states, he "would not have been able to do it by himself".
His journey from despair to renewed dignity and financial security is a testament to the life-changing impact of quality advice, guidance and advocacy.