The Challenge

Osman (not his real name) is a 55-year-old self-employed resident of the London Borough of Brent. He lives with his 13-year-old son, who joined him in the UK from Afghanistan in August 2021 following the Taliban takeover.

After his son’s arrival:

  • Osman had to reduce his work hours

  • He moved into a two-bedroom flat

  • His monthly earnings were £911.08, while rent was £1,650

This left Osman struggling to meet basic living costs and needing urgent advice on welfare benefits.

Our Approach

Osman approached Brent Hubs triage service at Harlesden Library and was referred to BHCAC’s Outreach Welfare Benefits Advice sessions.

Our support included:

  • Comprehensive welfare benefits assessment

  • Advice on entitlement to Universal Credit and Council Tax Support

  • Assistance with digital skills for managing online accounts

  • Referral to Sufra Food Bank for emergency food parcels

  • Referrals to Afghan Association Paiwand for immigration advice for his son

  • Support with his son’s school application

Over six weeks, Osman received:

  • Induction to online account management

  • Ongoing digital support for handling claims

  • Guidance for collecting evidence and submitting applications

The Obstacles

Initially, Osman was awarded only the standard Universal Credit allowance. The housing and child elements were refused due to:

  • Alleged insufficient evidence of housing costs

  • Questions over his son’s immigration status

BHCAC’s Caseworker:

  • Submitted a Mandatory Reconsideration request with detailed evidence

  • Assisted Osman in providing proof of housing costs

  • Referenced government regulations regarding Afghan refugees

The Outcome

After several weeks, the Department for Work and Pensions accepted Osman’s claims:

  • Backdated payment of £7,489.96 for four months

    • £1,589.99/month towards housing

    • £282.50/month for child element

  • Council Tax Support awarded: £363.01 for the year

  • Osman’s son was offered a local school place and received extra tuition for English language support

  • Immigration advice helped Osman’s son obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain

  • Going forward, Osman’s Universal Credit entitlement is £1,880.49 per month

  • Osman also claimed a £150 Council Tax Rebate

The Impact

“I am very happy with the support I received. I feel secure and safe knowing I can cover the costs of living, and my son is settled at school with extra tuition support.”

With BHCAC’s help, Osman:

  • Secured his welfare entitlements

  • Increased his monthly income

  • Accessed specialist immigration services

  • Received emergency support and educational assistance for his son

  • Gained digital skills to manage benefits independently

This case demonstrates the life-changing impact of holistic support, from benefits advice to immigration guidance and emergency assistance.