fed up and struggling to cope.

[lillyanne]

Sorry but I just needed to have a moan and get things off my chest. I've been in terrible pain and am suffering with my depression because of lack of money. I was refused DLA and I needed to go to the docs last week but couldn't go because I couldn't afford the taxi to get me there. I only have income support of 70 a week to live off after losing my job because of my illness. I have tried and tried to get some support but no one helps. Ive contacted social services but they said that there is nothing they can do to help me. I have had some small pieces of equipment though, so that was a help. I've just about had enough of struggling and begging for help only to be told NO. I fell over and was left badly bruised and in terrible pain, my ceiling in my kitchen has a hole because there was a leak upstairs, I can't seem to pull myself up anymore. Well, sorry to be so down but I had to get it out and here seems the only place I can express myself. Don't worry, I'll be better tomorrow (that's what I tell myself every night). xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[kittykat68]

hi sorry to hear of your troubles , i think we all get like that , i was in a dark place for a year and its not nice, have you not appealed for dla, i was turned down twice , and then i appealed and im not saying its easy you do have a battle because they are trying to wean the scroungers off so plz persivere, if you email paul howard he has the letter that are very helpful on appeals , hope ive helped x

[bodicea]

Hi, sorry your having a bad time. Have you told you doctor about the DLA. and how you need it to get to see him. I don't know whether your forms are the same as ours but their is a place for someone to write about your disabilities. If your GP would write something for you I am sure it will go a long way in helping their decision. I was told by the person who was assessing me to describe my worse day. (imagine that it is your worse day and tell them about it even if it is an ok day). I hope and pray that you get some sort of relief.

Also if you have a local arthritis group near you, they might be able to give you some advice and help.

Take care and look after yourself. bodiceaxxxx

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Did you appeal the DLA decision? Unfortunately because of ATOS's contract with the Government, many people are getting turned down, but a large percentage are successful on appeal, so it is worthwhile. You can often get help with appeals from organisations like Citizen's Advice Bureau and we could provide a general supporting letter about lupus.

With regards to travel expenses to medical appointments, it may be worth you filling in an HC1 form. It is for people with low incomes and can help you with prescription costs, dentist appointments, opticians appointments and they can help towards or pay for travel expenses for medical appointments. You can find out a bit more and order a form from here - nhsbsa.nhs.uk/HealthCosts/1...

[lillyanne in reply to Paul_Howard]

Hi Paul and thank you for your reply. Yes I did appeal and it was horrendous. I failed. It did put me off ever trying again to be honest but I have applied again in the last month in the hope that this time, I will not have to appeal because my condition has got so much worse than it was when I last applied (last August). Our C.A.B has closed and because I don't drive and can't walk, I am unable to find any help. A general supporting letter would be a fantastic help though so thank you. I would love to return to my old job (teaching assistant for Disabled children) but I know I can't and that makes me even more fed up. Think I'm just feeling a little sorry for myself at the moment. Thanks everyone for your support, its good to know that people understand. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to lillyanne]

If you email my colleague Christine with your name and address then she will pop a supporting letter in the post to you. Her email address is [e-mail]

I'm sorry to hear that you local CAB has closed. There are other organisations that may be able to help. D.I.A.L have a number of centres around the country. You can find out if they are able to help by calling 01302 310123. You may also be able to access your local Welfare Rights Advisor through the adult services section of your local council.

Best of luck with the application. If you need anything, let me know and I'll do what I can to help.

[lillyanne]

Just wanted to say thank you Paul for your advice. I have emailed your colleague and have also emailed my local council about a Welfare Rights Advisor. Thank you once again. xxxxxxxxxxxx