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Mum's fury at benefit refusal
A mum scored zero points on the Government's sickness benefit assessment despite having eight medical problems including kidney failure.
Applicants for employment and support allowance, formerly incapacity benefit, are awarded points based on their ability to work, with at least 15 needed to be eligible for help.
But mother-of-two Annamarie Elsworth, of Earls Barton, has been told she does not tick a single box following her assessment, despite having confirmed conditions including kidney failure and pancreas problems.
She also told the Department of Work and Pensions that she has osteoporosis and her bones are so weak she recently broke several ribs after sneezing.
The 40-year-old said: "I was quite shocked that I couldn't even get one point on their system.
"The reason I tried to get benefit is that I don't get enough money to keep a roof over my head.
"I used to work until a few months ago and this is the first time I've tried to claim this benefit.
"If it was possible for me still to work then that would be fine, but I genuinely can't."
Mrs Elsworth said she has been to her GP since the ruling and has been advised to appeal against the decision.
Her full list of medical complaints include being insulin-dependent for the last 36 years, having sight problems which require laser treatment on both eyes and she needs iron injections for anaemia.
The nerve endings in her hands and feet are damaged by diabetes, leading to loss of feeling and mobility in both, and the bones in her ankles are also fused together, meaning she cannot walk properly.
This is addition to failing kidneys which means she will soon need dialysis.
A spokesman for the Department for Work and Pensions said: "Eligibility for employment and support allowance is based on a work capability assessment, which is carried out by a healthcare professional.
"If people disagree with a decision they have the right to appeal."
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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