Sofia lives with her partner, Phil, and their young child in a privately rented home.

Client profile: 

Sofia lives with her partner, Phil, and their young child in a privately rented home. The family relies on Universal Credit (UC), Child Benefit (CB) and Council Tax Support (CTS) to get by.

Behind closed doors, daily life is far from simple. Sofia lives with significant health issues that affect her mobility and independence. She requires support throughout the day, not only to manage her own health needs, but also to help care for their child. The weight of this reality has reshaped their entire household. To step in as both, partner and carer, Phil reduced his working hours, limiting the jobs he could take and the income he could earn.

Reason client needs advice: 

With fewer hours available, Phil lost several jobs and struggled to secure stable employment that could accommodate the family’s needs. Living on benefits alone became an uphill battle. Bills mounted, choices narrowed, and the pressure grew heavier each month.

Eventually, with cupboards running low, the family turned to the Harlow Foodbank for the first time. It was there they met our adviser, a turning point in what had felt like an impossible situation.

What we have done to help the client: 

Our adviser worked closely with Sofia to submit a claim for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), carefully documenting the full impact of her health conditions on her daily life and mobility.

At the same time, recognising the immediate financial strain the family was under, our adviser applied for additional cost of living support through the Household Support Fund.

Outcomes: 

The result was life-changing.

Personal Independence Payment awarded at:
• Daily Living – Enhanced rate £434.20 4-weekly
• Mobility – Enhanced rate £303 4-weekly
• Backdated one off payment £2,800
Total yearly gain of £12,383.60

In addition, the family received:
• One off £120 Tesco Vouchers

For Sofia and Phil, this was more than financial support, it was stability, validation, and breathing space. The PIP award recognised the reality of Sofia’s health challenges, easing the pressure on Phil and giving the family a renewed sense of security.

What began as a visit to the Harlow Foodbank in a moment of hardship became the catalyst for lasting change, restoring dignity, strengthening the household, and giving this young family hope for the future.

NOTE:  * All client stories have had certain details changed or omitted to preserve the clients’ anonymity.