I admit I am naive but...

Hi Rachel,
with regard to means testing and
humiliation I believe Stephens post hits the nail on the head when referring to the older generation and their conception of charity.
In addition there are many,middle aged having worked all their lives when faced with unemployment who will only apply for means tested benefit(depending upon their family circumstances and eligibility) as a last resort.
Also bearing in mind the D.W.P or H.M.R.C do not go out of their way to explain ones entitlement to certain benefits or indeed quash the myth that means tested benefits are in any way charitable thus removing the pride barrier from claiming benefits to which one is entitled.

Thankyou Stephen and Bad Back Bill, I appreciate your time and explanations.

Rhetoric has so much to answer for!

Why can't the DWP et al just send people of retirement age brochures automaticaly that explain what they are entitled to?

(as I said I am naive)!

Thankyou once again.
Best wishes,
Rachel

Fedup wrote:

Please can someone explain why being means tested is humiliating?

Best wishes,
Rachel

The way it is carried out in many cases.
People are treated like they are bit of dog turd on someones shoe.
(And as many people here will attest to not just when it comes to means tested benefits.)

Fedup wrote:

I admit I am naive and am asking lots of questions but I want to educate myself. Thankyou for your understanding!

Please can someone explain why being means tested is humiliating?

Best wishes,
Rachel

Its a lot to do with state of mind, generation and class

I would say its inverse too, working class poor older people who are retired are less likly to take benefits that are means tested...IMO than someone with a few bob, (but know how to get beat the system)its all to do with the way people where brought up.

Thankyou Papasmurf and Dave for taking time to reply, I appreciate it.

Just trying to educate myself, I don't want to just concentrate on my own problems.

Best wishes,
Rachel