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20 years of Money Matters: Andrea's story

Over the past 20 years, the team has helped thousands of customers, including Andrea who has accessed the service on many occasions working closely with Money Matters Caseworker Elaine to better her circumstances.  

Andrea moved into a Karbon home 11 years ago. Due to personal circumstances Andrea found herself in financial difficulties and only claiming disability benefits, she needed some support. Her housing officer suggest she get in touch with the welfare team and that’s when Elaine came into the picture. 

“At the time I’d just moved into my home after living in a friend's home and had money stolen after being in a bad relationship. My mental health had deteriorated, and I had to go from full time work to part time.” 

With this reduction in income, Andrea was struggling.  

After reaching out for help, Andrea was put in touch with Elaine, who has been her caseworker ever since. Elaine was able to identify further benefits Andrea was entitled to and point her to the Employment and Skills  team to try and find her a job that suited her needs and circumstances. 

Elaine and the wider Money Matters Team have been able to successfully support Andrea through a range of difficulties and feels the team have gone above and beyond to understand her needs and priorities, especially as a neurodiverse person. 

“When you struggle with things that a lot of people don’t, it’s so important to be able to build a relationship with someone who can help. I spend so much of my time explaining my disabilities as they aren’t visible but that’s not the case with Money Matters. They’re always understanding and work with me at my own pace.” 

From benefit applications to support with food and energy bills, and even an appeal, Andrea has been able to move through some difficult circumstances, including an appealing a PIP decision.  

“It was very traumatic having to go to appeal but Elaine was there with me for support. I felt seen as a person and it made the process easier, Elaine was with me every step of the way, helping to fill out forms and even attended the Tribunal Service with me. My appeal was accepted too which was another weight off my shoulders and I wouldn't have even known where to start if it wasn’t for Money Matters.” 

Money Matters have been able to further support Andrea by referring her to other teams including adaptations to make sure she receives all the support she needs. 

“I can’t thank Elaine and the team enough. They will always go out of their way to help, and if not they will point you to someone who can. It’s the same across all of Karbon’s services I’ve been in contact with and I would recommend anyone to reach out for help. They see you as a person and not defined by your circumstances.”

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