I went from running my own business to having to claim two DWP benefits
I went from running my own business to having to claim two DWP benefits A leading businessman went from running a firm to life-threatening health issues, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits and a failed relationship.Paul, a former headhunter, had major heart surgery after collapsing by the side of a lake in 2012. His recovery was complicated, with the wound on his chest not healing properly, and Paul later suffered a stroke that left half his body paralysed, he told the Mirror.Paul found himself having to claim Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payments (PIP) from the DWP after splitting from his wife.READ MORE There's one group of drivers you have to feel so sorry for in new UK pay-per-mile car taxHe told The Mirror: "I went from running my own business, doing very well, to having Sudden Death Syndrome on the side of the lake in Milton Keynes."I got resuscitated at the side of the lake and sent to hospital for major heart surgery, where they replaced an aortic valve. I started to recover, but unfortunately, the wound didn't heal properly, and I got cast down with a stroke."The stroke has taken out half of my body, I've got no feeling in the left side of my body."He said: “The house has been modified for me. I've been paying what I can pay from my PIP and Universal Credit. I've had to survive and I've kept my bank informed.“After my bank started a repossession case, I got in touch with MoneyHelper. I needed to find out what my options were and MoneyHelper put me in touch with the right people.“They were non-judgemental and helped me out of a dire situation. After the call I felt more in control, understood my options and what to do next.“They are a brilliant service. They've not got an axe to bear, they're just literally there to help, whereas, when you're talking with a financial broker, they have an incentive.”
