Beneficiary Testimonials

“I am in my mid-80s. I live alone on a small pension in Brent. I struggled financially until I contacted BHCAC. They guided me through a Pension Credit claim, including backdating. Within two weeks, I received confirmation from DWP that I am entitled to £87.54 per week from 6 July 2020. I thank the BHCAC staff for their advice and assistance. They were efficient and responsive. Unfortunately, I could have been receiving this financial support for many years if I had known about it.”
— Brent resident

“I am a 78-year-old widower with chronic heart disease, living alone in Lambeth. During lockdown, I stayed at home for my safety. In June 2020, I became unwell and struggled to breathe. BHCAC immediately called 111, and I was taken to King’s College Hospital. I stayed for a week and have since recovered. The welfare check-up from BHCAC probably saved my life, and I am deeply thankful.”
— Lambeth resident

“Since April 2020, my work hours were reduced due to Covid-19, causing rent arrears and financial stress. I spoke little English and had limited digital skills. BHCAC advised me on entitlements, helped report changes, applied for emergency food parcels, financial support, and Personal Independence Payment, and liaised with my utility provider, resulting in a £285.16 debt write-off. Their support has improved my mental health, and I feel secure knowing they are always there to help. They were friendly, committed, and responsive via WhatsApp.”
— Brent resident

“My partner and I were placed in emergency accommodation in Buckinghamshire. I was pregnant and worried about running out of essentials before receiving our first Universal Credit payment. On the way there, a BHCAC Adviser called and arranged an emergency food parcel, assisted with Housing Benefit, and Local Emergency Support claims. She was an angel to us.”
— Brent resident

“All I can say is WOW! I am blown away by the quick response and immense help given by BHCAC. What an amazing organisation! Thank you for helping Sam & John (not their real names) and even myself during a difficult time!”
— Housing Needs Officer, Brent Council

“My workplace closed due to Covid-19, and I was illegally evicted with my baby and partner. I had language and digital barriers. BHCAC advised on entitlements, supported emergency food parcels, liaised with homelessness prevention, and employer furlough. With their support, we were placed into emergency accommodation and received our entitlements. I am now back at work and extremely grateful.”
— Brent resident

“I am exceptionally pleased with your staff’s welcoming and professional approach. With your advice and support, I secured all my entitlements, including an additional £82 per week and over £4,800 in backdated payments. Thank you so much.”
— Brent resident

External Recognition

“On behalf of the residents and councillors of Brent, we thank you for your bravery, selflessness, compassion, commitment, and sheer determination to go above and beyond in this crisis. Your work now and in the future will benefit generations to come and will not be forgotten.”
— Mayor of the London Borough of Brent, Councillor Ernest Ezeajughi

“As the representative Deputy Lieutenant for the Borough, I wanted to let you know your organisation’s hard work is massively appreciated, especially in these fraught times. Your work and support exemplify all that is good about our communities, our Borough and our City. Thank you.”
— Kevin McGrath DL OBE, Representative Deputy Lieutenant, London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham