A Knightswood man has told of how he was able to overcome his anxiety and get support he didn’t know he could access.

Jim McMahon, a retired sales manager, explained that he has dyslexia which can make filling out forms challenging for him.

The 66-year-old had been “anxious and full of dread” when it came to applying for housing and disability benefits.

However, Jim was able to take some of the pressure off by using his housing association’s benefits advisor service.

Jim said: “Donna from the Wheatley Group was able to explain everything.

“I had been anxious and full of dread, but she was there for me and, in a very caring way, was able to explain and sort things out for me.

“The benefits system is complicated, but I know if I were to face any other benefits issues now, I would be able to phone her for advice.

“She removed a lot of worry and made me feel that things would be okay. If anybody is having issues dealing with their benefits, I’d urge them to give Wheatley’s benefit advisors a call.

“They will explain things clearly and give you the support you need.”

Wheatley Group’s benefits advisors supported Jim with his housing benefit claim as well as accessing disability living allowance for him.

The Knightswood resident is one of over 5,600 tenants of Wheatley Homes Glasgow, Wheatley Homes East, Wheatley Homes South, and Loretto Housing that the advisors have helped since the start of the financial year.

Laura Pluck, Wheatley Group director of communities, said: “We’re doing all we can to support our tenants in these difficult times. 

“I’m very proud to hear of the difference the support from Donna has made to Jim, and I hope it has given him one less thing to worry about.

“It is very clear that the welfare benefits system can be complex for people to navigate. Tenants may presume they’re already getting all the financial support available or they’re not entitled to anything. Others may worry their claim will be rejected or they struggle to apply online.

“Welfare benefits are a vital safety net for many people on low incomes, particularly in this cost-of-living crisis.

“We are here to help tenants claim all of the benefits they are entitled to. The support and advice we can offer is life-changing.”  

Benefits advisors can help tenants with claims for Universal Credit and other benefits and can help appeal decisions taken by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).

Fuel advisors can help with energy advice, advocating on tenants’ behalf with their suppliers, negotiating debt repayment plans, and making sure bills are correct.

Tenants who want to book an online or telephone appointment are urged to contact 0800 479 7979.