The resident has learning difficulties and first came to Bromley Well in early 2024 to seek help with their Employment Support Allowance (ESA) claim.
Over a period of 5-6 months Carol worked closely with the client, supporting them to get their Severe Disability Premium (SDP) reinstated.
In January 2025, after ongoing practical and emotional support from Carol, the client was successfully awarded £21,188.83 in backdated Employment Support Allowance (ESA) with payments dating back over 10 years to 2014.
In addition, they will now receive transitional elements of Universal Credit payments to help with the change from ESA to Universal Credit.
Carol said
"It was great to see the client receive this backdated payment. We worked hard together over 5-6 months and it's extremely satisfying to see all the hard work has paid off.
I've learnt a lot from volunteering with Bromley Well and Citizens Advice Bromley and get a real sense of achievement doing it. It's great to think I have helped someone who otherwise might be struggling with daily costs and living".
Loraine Whittaker CEO Citizens Advice Bromley
"Carol has been volunteering for Citizens Advice Bromley for over 6 years now. She is truly an expert at what she does. During her time with us she has successfully supported over 458 people to get around £3.5 million worth of unclaimed benefits. A truly outstanding contribution. Getting this money not only helps the client. It also boosts the local community and economy by bringing potential spending power into Bromley".
David Walker, CEO BTSE
"We can't thank our volunteers enough for what they do for Bromley residents. A truly outstanding outcome for our client. A huge thank you to Carol and our Bromley Well partner charity Citizens Advice Bromley. We're pleased our client got the outcome they deserved'.
Volunteer with Bromley Well
Our volunteers play a vital role in what we do. If you are interested in joining our team we'd love to hear from you. Find our more about volunteer opporutnities here and contact volunteering@bromleywell.org.uk to get started.
Get support from Bromley Well
Find out more on where to get help on the cost of living: www.bromleywell.org.uk/advice/cost-of-living/
Our Information, legal advice and guidance service offers a range of free support for Bromley residents. Find out more here: www.bromleywell.org.uk/our-services/advice-service/
Make a self referral or refer someone else here: www.bromleywell.org.uk/make-a-referral/
What is Employment and Support Allowance?
You can apply for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if you have a disability or health condition that affects how much you can work.
ESA gives you:
- money to help with living costs if you’re unable to work;
- support to get back into work if you’re able to.
You can apply if you’re employed, self-employed or unemployed. Find more information on the government’s website here: www.gov.uk/employment-support-allowance.