“My wife has been on DLA1 (first level, both elements) for a few years. We were claiming JSA3 – a joint claim. But when I was diagnosed with colorectal2 cancer my doctor gave me a sick note for three months, which meant switching to ESA4. Because I didn’t go for conventional treatment I couldn’t be fast-tracked to the higher rate.
JSA included a payment of £42/week because of my wife’s DLA claim. However, because there isn’t an equivalent payment within ESA there is now a shortage of £42 per week.
There are natural ‘food’ elements that are good for fighting cancer, but we are struggling to pay bills and afford even basic foods.”
Our thanks to Adrian for sharing this whilst visiting one of our Food Distribution Centres.
Notes:
1 DLA stands for Disability Living Allowance
2 Colorectal Cancer is also called cancer of the bowel or bowel cancer.
2 Colorectal Cancer is also called cancer of the bowel or bowel cancer.
3 JSA stands for Jobseekers Allowance