How I Found Financial Breathing Room: My Experience with Money A+E

I am a 54-year-old British woman working as a nurse for GSTC. The demands of my job and my health challenges can sometimes be overwhelming. On top of that, I live with my daughter, who had to leave university due to illness, which has added to the emotional and financial strain.

Unfortunately, my application for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) was previously denied, which left me feeling defeated and unsure about my future. However, Money A+E has given me hope by suggesting that I reapply for PIP, considering the worsening of my condition. They even offered to help me with the application process, which takes away some of the burden.

During my meeting with Money A+E, we explored various ways to improve my financial situation. They advised me to switch to a cheaper SIM card plan, which can save me £15 per month on my phone expenses. They also guided me to websites like Money Saving Expert (MSE) and Uswitch.com to find discounted SIM-only deals and compare different mobile phones. Additionally, Money A+E suggested that I spread out my council tax payments over 12 months instead of the usual 10. This helped me to add an extra £20 per month to my budget.

I was also encouraged to speak with my line manager to see what reasonable adjustments could be put in place to help me when I am at work. This was really helpful as I was not aware of the Trust's well-being support programme because I don’t use the intranet.

This money can help me towards the costs of additional supplements and complementary treatment plans that I previously could not afford. And, with the help of completing the PIP form this time round, this will take some of the financial and emotional worry away.

Name: Kathy* alias given to preserve anonymity

Location: London

Occupation: GSTC employee

Support included: Prioritizing bills Welfare Benefit Budgeting Saving and setting money goals

Information on other sources of support: Money A+E Advice service