Beneficiaries' stories - Case studies 31 - 36

A very happy outcome for Phil and his girls

Phil Hodgson has Seratic Arthritis, which caused him to leave his job at Thorn, Spennymoor.

His only income was Incapacity Benefit and, having separated from his wife, he was allocated a council house.

EEIBA was contacted by the local convenor at Thorn to see whether we could help as he badly wanted to furnish the property so that his three young daughters who live with his wife, could stay over.

We immediately provided beds and carpets. The case was then reviewed a short time later when a washing machine and a weekly grant was provided.

During this period, Phil had been visiting his local Citizen's Advice Bureau to clarify his situation regarding benefits.

It was suggested that he might like to work as a volunteer advisor.

He enjoyed the work so much he decided to take a 12 month intensive training course to obtain a CAB certificate in advice work, with the possibility in the future of a paid job.

Phil obtained his CAB certificate, together with an NVQ in computing and during this time, EEIBA increased his grant to help him cope with the extra cost of going to work five days a week.

Phil was now ready to find a job as a caseworker but needed to be mobile as CAB offices are spread all over the north-east.

He would also need to make home visits and go to outreach centres. EEIBA decided to fund a car to give him a better chance of finding a job.

Over the next 12 months, Phil continued doing his voluntary work whilst seeking his opportunity.

Finally he was successful and now works as a full time salaried CAB caseworker.

He is delighted to be selfsufficient, has a better standard of living, and can do more things with his three daughters who he obviously adores.

All financial help has now ceased but regular contact is still maintained. Phil says he will always be indebted to the charity for the help given. Our Welfare Officer said, "It was nice to be able to give Phil a helping hand when most needed, and we are delighted he has achieved his full potential."

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