Hi I have lived in what could be best described as independant poverty since about 2003.
I get direct payments and because I am deemed more able than those at somerset court-thus I live in a perverse poverty trap that is soon to implode.
As anyone who has direct payments will know if you pay your carers directly then your discriminated against compared to agency pay roll.
Now the other issue is the FAB assessment criteria is years old, this means that the values used to calculate your contribution do not couple up with the cost of living in any way shape or form.
Now I am told that the direct payments are to be reduced or cut, this seriously annoys me as I don't manage so well at the moment.
There seems to be no understanding this is not something that is a perk, but essential to me.
I keep hearing that they are helping me live a forfilled and rewarding life, but I think they are deluding themselves as I can't afford a holiday, can't afford to travel to places that would interest me.
They think a cup of tea and a sandwich once a week at a cafe is all I need.
I feel like I'm living in a mental prison, surrounded by people who can't understand.
I'm on a sinking ship, but I will not go down without a fight.
