Everything you wanted to know about sanctions but were too afraid to ask!
With the help of people who have experienced the effects of being sanctioned, and many agencies including: Our Voice, Glasgow Social Work Services, Child Poverty Action Group the People’s Assembly Scotland and many more COPE have put together a booklet to provide information on sanctions and how to avoid them.
I would advise people to read the booklet, the information in there is very important. It maybe the information may help you or someone you know, love or are working with.
I know what it is like to have the fear of HOW am I going to pay my rent and pay my bills. I was off sick from my work for 16 months and had to rely on benefits for a year I am back at work now but still sorting out problems from 2015/2016.
Please don’t sit and make yourself ill with worry speak to your advisers.
If you do have the misfortune of being sanctioned don’t wait and worry write your reconsideration letter and send it in, you have just five days to send this letter in.
Partners gave COPE a format for the reconsideration and appeal letters, you just need to tick the check list and sign it making sure you have done all that is necessary and make sure you send it to the correct office as this will vary depending on which local authority you stay in.
Please don’t be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure of anything ring the Citizens Advice Bureau or speak to your welfare rights officer. All housing associations have welfare rights officers they will help with your forms.
The most important thing to remember is you are not alone. There are people who can help you, just don’t be afraid to ask for help.
I have my own experiences so want to support COPE help people to know their rights and seek support. It’s bad enough managing a health condition without also having to worry about money.
