James’ story
"Knowing I have someone in my corner, working on my behalf, is so important to help me navigate the current struggles I am facing."
I was referred to a Community Link Worker (CLW) for support to help me migrate from the old benefits system to Universal Credit. It is a complex process, and I didn’t know how to do it on my own.
I am profoundly deaf and I am now losing my eyesight as well. I struggle with anything to do with my benefits and my housing especially. I am under a lot of stress right now as I’m at risk of eviction and facing legal proceedings. I also have damp and mould in my home and this has resulted in me suffering from very poor mental health recently.
My CLW has supported me by speaking to the housing association on my behalf, making them aware of my concerns and chasing things up for me. He has visited the homelessness team with me and kept in touch with them so that I know what my housing options are. He has sent supporting information to my solicitor to help with legal proceedings and referred me to Lifelink where I have attended counselling appointments which are crucially BSL interpreted. He also set up my Universal Credit. He is a great support, and I really don’t know what I would do without him. Some of the processes are so complex and tricky to navigate so having my CLW on hand – he is available when I need him by phone or in-person during appointments – it gives me peace of mind and helps me manage all the different challenges I am facing at the moment.
I am glad I have the support of my Community Link Worker as I am under so much stress and need someone outside of my family that I can turn to for help. He is really helpful and consistently keeps in touch. Knowing I have someone in my corner, working on my behalf, is so important to help me navigate the current struggles I am facing.
James’ story is part of the latest Humans of Scotland publication – Community Links Worker Edition. The book is available to read here.
Read all Humans of Scotland stories here.
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