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You may notice a NEW facility, where, you, the readers, are invited to provide an answer to a particular problem. If you wish to do so. Just click on the 'Reader Answer' Link within the Answer section of that question.

NEWS NOVEMBER 2007:  Welfare work rules to be tougher. Updating government plans to reform disability and sickness benefit, during November 2007, the Work and Pensions Secretary, announced changes to the way people are accessed in relation to ability to work. These changes continue. If you would care to contact Secretary of state for work and pensions, Details are below on how to do this Department for Work and Pension

Questions begin below, Answers appear BELOW THE Question

State Retirement Pension cannot be paid in addition to Widow's Pension.
 
A widow can elect to continue to get Widow's Pension until she is aged 65 but will not get any Graduated Retirement
Pension until she draws state Retirement Pension.

Thank you for your kind words regarding our service.

We would expect that during a long period of employment, any hospital specialist's priorities change and it is probably a need to delegate to other doctors within the hospital team, as your treatment course has been decided after a long personal consultation. So, in reality, just because a particular consultant does not see a patient personally, does not necessarily mean that the consultant no longer examines your case or takes an interest in every case that needs their expertise.

We hope that any treatment you are getting eases the disabilitating symptoms we are sure you experience and hope that you see continued improvement.

Ambien/Stilnox (zolpidem) are hypnotic agents which are indicated for short-term treatment of insomnia and are reported as having serious side effects, so should only be prescribed where needs must.

There have been reports that The 'miracle' treatment that's bringing the brain-damaged patients back to life.
Read this report.

It is called zolpidem outside of South Africa.

We can not confirm your story of a young girl from east sussex, being helped by this prescription.

Basically IB is just sick pay, paid at 3 different levels, with 2 payscales.

Disability Living allowance (DLA) is a disabled persons support benefit.

If one has a disability, even if working, one can claim Disability Living Allowance. There is a componant that caters for those who need help looking after themselves and another, where one has 'severe difficulty' getting around.

The benefits are unrelated in any way, athough they can be claimed together.

While Incapacity Benefit is sick pay and one would be considered non fit to go to work, the need for a NI contribution credit is there, because, when sick, an employer does not pay NI contributions for you, nor do you, as the worker. Those with long term illnesses would soon, be well behind in their contributions, which would affect their state pensionj and future sick pay qualification.

IB is changing, From 27 October 2008 Employment and Support Allowance replaces Incapacity Benefit and Income Support paid on incapacity grounds for new customers.
Full Details Here

We hope this is clearer for you.

Sadly, there is no other financial aid you can claim for.

However, you should peruse a claim for Incapacity Benefit, as, if awarded, you may not be able to claim the monitory value, but could, if accepted, gain National Insurance credits. This will keep your contributions topped up and if your illness is long term, may well allow you to make a full claim later.

You should ask the DWP about NI contributions, as the system is changing so quickly, there could be significant changes, which are not, as yet, available outside government data bases.

No, you do not get NI credits when your only income is Disability Living Allowance.

You will need to claim Jobseeker s Allowance or Incapacity Benefit, if you are too ill to work.

We have not seen your question before, we assure you.

To respond, you should not worry, as many hospital departments have a number of registrars and doctors, working within each department. Normally, there is one 'consultant', who one see's initially and once a course of treatment is decided, further appointments are made to provide that treatment. The consultant usually delegates this work and perhaps only see's the patient if, for example, a treatment regime, is not working.  Although, a reschedule of a consultants appointment book, is not uncommon, as, of course, lengthy treatment periods, mean that the consultants commitments over the months or even years change, as life goes on.

So, we would not advise, you see too much into this.

However, if you are still worried, there is no harm in asking the hospital, if you can make an appointment to have a dedicated consultation with the consultant.

The time to really worry, is, if your visit to a consultant results in that consultant offering no treatment, if, say, for example, you advise them, that you have a drug allergy and have anxieties about some of the terrible side effects some drugs have, that consultant then offers no treatment and refuses to help in any way at all. Yes, this does happen. So, since there is normally only one consultant in a particular field in any one hospital, we must really thank all the other hospital staff who are dedicated to providing assurances and help to patients.

Simply, if we were all to rely only on one doctor, we could perhaps be in a situation where, if that doctor did not care enough to provide suitable treatment, or just too busy, we would get no treatment at all.

So, if you are still being treated, in reality, all is OK.

You can claim Incapacity Benefit for 1 year after you reach 65, only if your state pension is less than than the monetary value of Incapacity Benefit (IB). Otherwise, you will stop getting IB and get your state pension instead.

Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.
Once you are over pension age (unless you are still in ‘regular employment’), you will be transferred to Retirement Allowance, providing your Reduced Earnings Allowance is £2 or more. The maximum payment is £13.68 a week.
 

Do you think euthanasia should be legal and people allowed to commit suicide.

Hello Babs, We DO NOT THINK THAT SUICIDE SHOULD BE LEGAL NO ONE SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO KILL ANOTHER LEGALLY. (Except perhaps the Armed forces and police).

Allowing this provides for a state to kill those citizens too old or too expensive to provide medical services to, or long term care. It also provides an escape route for those in pain or discomfort.

To us, this borders on genocide. Possible mass extinction of groups of citizens.

For those who are not disabled, or do not have an illness that provides for perhaps a slow lingering death, it may be difficult to understand how, a suffers mind, could be such, that they may feel, the only option is death. That is suicide. Allowing one to decide this, when the balance of their mind is so disturbed, is morally wrong. How many times have you hear the saying, "I wish I was dead". With such a law, murder, could be easily be made legal. A sick person can be easily manipulated and suggestions placed in their minds, that they would be better off dead.

Even government could view the possibility of saving billions, in care for the sick, disabled and elderly. We are not saying that they would, but they do complain about the costs for care, quite often and always attack those claiming Incapacity Benefit. They are cutting those benefits for many, making life miserable for the genuinely sick, so, we must not overlook the possibility that citizens are being manipulated to think, that sick people are a burden and should be euthanated.

The last time any government attempted to persuade citizens that a group of people were unworthy, was in Natzi Germany, which lead to millions of legalised deaths, that the rest of the world condemned. We must remember that many knew of these death camps and killing hospitals, where, even disabled children were murdered. So, those who wish some dead, are still amongst us.

The lady taking the UK to court should be arrested, by present law, as she has admitted contemplating suicide and her desire to involve her carer. Instead of employing someone from  Switzerland, to collect her. Obviously, she is an unthinking person, who's mind is imbalanced. Why then, we wonder are the media promoting her as an 'injured' partly, when in truth, she is the one who wants to injure herself.

This is why, we at DDLG feel that Euthanasia and Suicide should never be made legal.

I am just a normal bloke, on a standard wage, own my own home, have a few bills, such as a car, credit cards, plenty of credit left, pay back monthly. How will this credit freeze thing affect me? Will the USA plan help me?

Things you buy on HP, or credit agreements, normally have what is called 'fixed rate' interest, so these you just carry on paying the instalments as you have.

However, it is the cost of a loan, that is changing, the interest the banks charge on money you borrow.

This has been increasing of late, that is why the USA got into trouble. There were those who purchased on low fixed rate for say 3 years and could not afford repayments after that time, as banks put up interest rates to a level, that meant the customer could not afford to pay. So, many defaulted. Of course, buy to let, purchasers too, played a part, while these mortgages carried a higher interest rate anyway, they too got into trouble, as the rents they were charging, did jot cover their mortgage repayments. So these customers defaulted too.

The price the man and woman in the street will have to pay, is higher interest charges. That new car will cost you more than it did last year, for example. Mortgage variable rates are increasing, most will be able to cut costs and pay the extra, but many will not. So defaults will accelerate. While interest stays high, many will not borrow, less will be sold, so, there will be more unemployment, less sales in the high street etc.

With the energy companies putting up prices, fuel not coming down with the reduction in oil costs in the UK, the situation will only get worse.

The USA plan is designed to save the rich people, so, unless you are rich and by rich, we mean you can afford to save and do not just make ends meet, the plan will not help you in the UK. It may be of value to a few mortgage defaulters, where the US government may buy their debt and arrange payments that these customers can afford, but only for two or three years, after that, these will be sold, at a profit. That means the customer will face high monthly payments again and be in the same situation. It sounds like a short term fix, not a solution.

One can not say what the prognoses is, but we advise, you continue discussions with your doctors and physiotherapist. You may find, that it will take much effort to true to do many of the things you used to, but it is important you do keep trying.

Our main email service is currently not responding, so we hope you get this message.

Good Luck.

It is true, that the powers that be think that by raising interest rates, they will make more profit and increase their income. But they really do think that everyone earns the same as they do and that all the bad payers can actually afford the increase in monthly payments on loans. Government however feel banks have been irresponsible offering loans to people who's income is too low to afford payments. So, government, instead of forcing interest low, want to help the rich companies and not the normal people.

Just now, it may be impossible for you to find a reasonable remortgage and trying to sell your home, may just be a waste of time, as no one is buying. There was a drop of 95% in new mortgage provision last month.

Try to make those payments and keep looking, wait and see, at least until the new year.

There may be sensible banks out there, that will see the gap in the market and offer low interest loans, that normal earners can afford on a standard mortgage and for new products, such as cars and TV's.

We will keep readers posted and if any reader knows of any good deals out there, do share the information with us.
 

First, an employer must pay SSP, if the employees have average weekly earnings equal to or more than the lower earnings limit for National Insurance contribution (NIC) purposes - £90 a week in 2008/09. That is regardless of whether or not they are required to pay NIC.

So, your husband  (partner) should claim Incapacity Benefit, the DWP, will either process the application, or advise you that the employer is breaking the law by not paying sick pay and that your husband should claim SSP.
http://www.dwp.gov.uk/advisers/claimforms/sc1_print.pdf  PDF reader required.
 

We wish him well with the operation.

I applied to join the fire brigade in  February. I heard nothing but this morning I received a letter inviting me to a Firefighter Recruitment Feedback Event. I have tried ringing the office but got no reply. I am unsure what this actually means. Does it mean I have been accepted??? I am confused but really happy at the same time.
Would you be able to shed some light on what the letter actually means.
Thank you, Jas A.

As you probably know, each county has its own fire service and method of recruiting.

There are also full time and part time, as well as retained fire-fighters.

Many have Recruitment  Events, where he staff at the event will be happy to answer questions about all aspects of the recruitment process and the varied work of a Fire-fighter.

If you have applied in the past and heard nothing, there is a possibility that your application was not read, or filed, as they had all the fire-fighters they needed at the time, although, it would be unusual, not to hear anything at all. However, we can be realistic and say, that if any service has say 20 vacancies, but get a million applications, the cost of contacting all the unlucky applicants may well be prohibitive.

If you have been invited to a Recruitment  Event and still wish to join, do go along, there you can see how the land lays and perhaps move a step closer to becoming a fire-fighter in your area.

We hope you are successful in your excellent selection of public service.

Good Luck.

http://www.fireservice.co.uk/recruitment/index.php

Generally, your mortgage rate is fixed until 2011.

It is only in exceptional circumstances, that your lender will adjust your current rate of repayment before your protection period occurs.

However, in today's circumstances, when banks are taken over, the new owner, may be able to change your current rate of interest and, if that is higher, your payments will increase.

Hello Jon,

Lloyds TSB announce it was in merger talks with  Halifax-Bank of Scotland (HOBS), after a run on the latter’s shares yesterday.

It seems unlikely that the government would let a major UK bank collapse

The near collapse of HBOS is a seismic event for the UK financial system and British
economy as virtually 1 in 3 adult Brit's are HBOS customers which brings home the credit
crisis right into their every day lives like no other event so far has. The bid by TSB
(mistakenly referred to in the media as a merger) prevents a complete meltdown that
would have occurred had events continued that would have witnessed a run on the bank,
not by small investors but by other banks calling in their loans of millions of pounds to
HBOS, for that would have resulted in the same outcome.

Whilst the bank has not been nationalised, however the outcome will be similar in that Lloyds TSB will probably wish to reduce its exposure to the UK housing market.

The Bank of England had to issue an unprecedented denial that HBOS was in crisis last wednesday.

It is expected that HBOS mortgage interest rates will rise significantly as the bank seeks to push mortgage
holders to remortgage with other mortgage banks and therefore reduce its risks of default.

It does seem that the financial sectors answer to the current situation, is to push interest rates up, so increasing loan repayments, making it even more difficult for customers to pay each month.

While, our response to the current situation, would be to reduce interest, make less profit,, so making it easier for new and existing customers to pay existing and obtain new loans. The economy would stabilise and growth would be ensured, although slower than the preceding 15 years.

If you are really worried, you may find it of value to seek a remortgage, however, do be careful, if you go down that line, select an optimum interest rate, perhaps a fixed rate, that you can afford to pay, as, unless the banks come to their senses, it is probable, that interest rates will increase and not come down for some time.

The link below, may be of value, in this respect.
http://www.moneysupermarket.com/mortgages/
 

It would appear that it began in the USA.

Mortgages were provided to millions on 3 year  low interest deals, that meant low monthly repayments for 3 years, followed by a variable rate for the remainder of the loan period.

Mortgages were based the ability to pay back the loan on the income of the customer and ability to pay, for the low interest period and not for the full period of the loan. As the housing market topped in the USA, there were more homes for sale, than there were customers to buy them.

In the last 15 to 20 years, people have been used to house prices going up, so they would sell their home at a profit after 3 years (before their payments went up). But with so many homes available, many could not sell and could not afford the new repayments after the 3 years, because of the interest charged by the banks. So these customers defaulted, banks repossessed, put the homes on the market, so making the situation worse, as a shortage of customers meant that these were sold cheaply.

The banks knew what was happening, but refused to take the simple way out, by reducing the variable rate of mortgage repayments, so making payments affordable for customers and offering cheap long term deals for new customers. The banks thought they could get away with making huge profits and, in reality most still do so.

Even now, interest charged on loans for low income group customers, are higher, than those charged for high earners or the rich. We can see the basic point, but this does not take into account 'ability to pay', or address the rift between rich and poor. Rather, this practice ensures the rich get richer and the less well off, subsidise them and of course, find it difficult to move on up the latter.

Even the actions of those in the city, who borrow stock, sell and drive the price low, then buy back at the low price, return the stock to the owner and pocket the difference (profit). This action, effectively artificially drives stock value down, so undermines market values.

These are just a few of the reasons.

The fix is difficult, however, to boost confidence, the banks should offer low, long term interest rate mortgages and loans for cars and other commodities, stop huge bonus payments for staff and directors, offer bonuses by all means, but less than they currently do.  Take a long term medium profit view to financing, with a plan for volume lending, rather than making huge short term profits. After all, a mortgage is for a home, that should be considered long term and not a rout to a short term profit.

Take motor car sales, for example, sell high volume at base price and a company makes a profit, ensures many jobs, provides the world with motor cars that all can buy. While low turn over manufactures have to charge a high price, with less jobs, but higher quality product. There is room for both in the market place, but the high end market could not survive, without that high volume cheaper market, as there would be too few high earners able to afford vehicles, such as the Rolls Royce.

It is sad, but we think that is what the financiers have done, forgotten that high volume market place, charged high end interest to those without the high income, so, they have crashed.

To top it all, home prices must stabilise and the buy now, sell three years later, get a new deal, will need to stop, as the market place can not be sustained.

Honest trading will, we think, save the day, let us hope that there are a few honest people out there that will fix this for everyone to get a fair deal.

We will have to wait and see, how things play out, only time will tell.
 

Since no one knows the exact plan, it would be very difficult to access what effect it would have on market stability.
However, we presume that any plan may be considered better than the current action taken by financial institutions.

Of course you do.

It sounds as if you now want to create a new family unit, with a new child on the way, this will be the best thing all round.

We do appreciate that 'private' rents are expensive, this is because homes are very expensive to buy, so mortgages are very high, rent paid usually needs to pay at least this amount.

Social housing is cheaper to rent, but has drawbacks.

We gather, you are renting now and get housing benefit and would perhaps like to stay where you are.

We should advise you first, that technically, you should inform the council and DWP, if you have anyone stay over, on a regular basis, even for one night. Many thousands do have friends, family and guests stay over and feel secure in the myth, that it is OK, for up to 3 nights a week. If you want to stay 100% legal, then you must tell the authorities, or initially, just not have anyone stay overnight regularly. This is one of the drawbacks of means tested benefits, such as housing and council tax benefit.

Now, you would be a family, with two children and one on the way, so if your partner is on a low wage, he will be entitled to tax credits and of course housing benefit. This will be paid, up to the maximum for the type of home you occupy, in the area where you live.

You can visit the housing office, armed with all the information you will need, such as your partners wage, you child tax credit and benefit details (all your projected income) and ask them for a 'projection' of housing benefit. This would be 'before your boyfriend moves in of course'. This way, at least you would know where you stand.

There is a tax credit calculator online, that will help you work out, if you would be able, as a 'family' to claim tax credits.
Click Here to go there

Best wishes for the future.

Yes, IB is a contributory benefit and if one has not paid enough NI contributions, one can apply for Income Support and have what we would call, 'an underlying right to IB'. This, as you say, secures your NI contributions while you are ill.

Can I use your site to portray my gratitude to everyone who provided the world with what I can only describe as:
The Best Paralympics Games Ever.

The Chinese opening and closing ceremonies were absolutely amazing and will stay in my memory for as long as I live.

Thank you to all the athletes, the organisers, the television providers and everyone.

Although, I must pass on my best wishes to all the competitors who will now go on the the London 2012 Olympics, I an very saddened, by the proposed theme that the London organisers are portraying to the world.

Hopefully, the disappointment I feel for the future, will not be felt by the participants of future events.

Thankfully, as, will millions of others, I will have the memory of the 2008 Olympics and Paralympics, to fall back on.

Well done China.

Hello Jing,

Indeed we will publish your congratulations.

May, we, at DDLG, also, offer our congratulations, not only to the Paralympics competitors, but also to the Chinese people and organisers, who have provided the world with, what can only be described as the Best Olympics Ever.

We too enjoyed the HD coverage from China, the competitions, the venues, in truth, no one has effectively disappointed the whole world.

Yes indeed, Well Done China.

Well done, the Paralympics.

"Sky, Earth, and Human Beings",
 emblem of the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games

**************************************************

Yes, we too have concern that the organisers of the London Olympics have lost their way.

We watched the closing ceremony of the XIII Paralympic Games and was just speechless with pleasure, until the London Olympics presentation, with that bus.

The promotion of the 2012 games, may sadly, put a lot of people off, we can only hope that the athletes will come and forget about the 'party' theme and work hard to win the medals and treat the competition with the same enthuthiasm as they all have in Beijing.

If only the media would be honest and say, what they obviously feel and condemn the 2012 organisers, instead of just saying that the London 2012 Olympics will be 'different'. They might as well say, "If what we have seem, is anything to go by, it will be absolute rubbish".

We too, join in the pleasure that Jing has had, in the full knowledge that the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, will probably be in our memories for as long as we live and, for many of us, be the last enjoyable games we will ever see.

Thank you China and all who have provided ourselves and the world, with many weeks of pleasure.

No inoculations are required, though it is wise to update your tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and typhoid inoculations before travelling.

Malaria is a moderate problem in some remote areas, and in the interior of Malaysian Borneo.

 In developed parts of the country malaria has been wiped out.

It is wise for those  travelling to Malaysian  Borneo, to take malaria tablets.

Details about travelling to Malaysia, Here

Thank you for asking your question again.

We are sorry you could not understand our previous response.

Simply put.

If one gains any form of compensation in relation to an injury or illness, no matter from what source and one has claimed benefits from the DWP, in relation to that injury, then the DWP will probably claim part or all that compensation. The actual figure would depend on how much benefit was paid and how much the compensation is.

However, if one is awarded compensation in relation to something else, or a different injury, the likelihood is, that any non means tested benefit would remain unaffected.

Basically, if one was claiming Incapacity Benefit, Housing and Council Tax Benefit and Income Support or Pension Credit for 30 years and won the lottery, we have never heard of the DWP or councils asking for all those benefit payments to be paid back.

Again, Incapacity Benefit is not 'means tested', so savings or income should not affect your right to it. However, other benefits you may get, could be affected, such as 'council tax benefit' and or, Income Support. If your your claim for IB is related to the criminal injuries award, the DWP may reduce your award, by the volume of benefits you have received so far.

Incapacity Benefit is not 'means tested', so savings or income should not affect your right to it. However, other benefits you may get, could be affected, such as 'council tax benefit' and or, Income Support.

Hello Dug,

A political party's leader, is only the figurehead. It is the way that party runs the nation, that persuades voters.

Currently, there is no one in Labour that has the right charisma, not only to persuade voters to have faith in Labour, but those who advise the current cabinet, appear to have lost the ability to come up with suggestions that are popular.

All those who seek to organise a leader election, would be better off using that spare time on their hands to calculate what they could be doing in their own constituencies to improve life for the electorate. Then,  perhaps, voters would feel more confident in supporting the individual Labour candidate at any forthcoming election.

A general election, with no party having an overwhelming victory, appears, by record, to be the only way, that the people of our nation, will get the help they now need.

This will help to get the right policies through, those that help most of the people, most of the time. Sadly, Labour appears to use its parliamentary majority, to push through policies, that, in the main, are not ideal, or do not help in the way they were intended to.

Labour's misfortunes are not wholly, the fault of Mr Brown, he can not be held responsible for floods, bad debt in other nations and continuing wars. However, he can be held responsible for bad decisions, regarding escalating energy costs and the state of many of our City's streets, with young hooligans, making life intolerable for most of our nations citizens. He can personally be held responsible for the attitude of the young abled community, towards their elders as well. Responsibility can be his and other major Labour, Conservative and Lib Dems people, for the deteriorating attitude of young people towards the disabled and sick in our community too.

Overall though, the response , must be, NO, a new Labour Leader, will not necessarily, enhance Labours miss misfortunes.

A new attitude of honesty, compassion and no tolerance to anti social behaviour, crime and intolerance of common sense, would be the only way any political party could hope to ensure their future.
 

The way the offer has been presented poses two major questions.

Why offer something that has been in place for years?

Why offer something, that will actually increase consumer bills, by changing existing offers, making the energy companies pay for the service and not government.

Either Gordon Brown , has not actually read the offer correctly, or he has lost his touch.

So, the answer is NO, in fact, that offer, will give energy companies even more reason to put up costs and make even more profit.

What we can not understand, is the energy companies themselves.

If we had one, we would use the market place to buy the cheapest energy available, pass on that saving to customers, so most of the UK would choose us, we would still make a good profit, because we would have so many customers.

We suspect that, the companies are making sure that costs remain high and are working together, instead of competing.

You asked:-
"explain the feature of first computer generation and its failure?"
 

This kind of question is asked in degree courses and to be fair to all students, we can not provide responses that could be used instead of study.

Here is a page that will tell you about a particular First Generation Computer.

This will give you many clues.

A vacuum tube, would have been called a 'valve', in the UK.
 

Your severance pay should not affect your Incapacity Benefit.

He said there would be "immediate help" for the most in need, with measures focused on reducing energy consumption.

Of course any help is better than non, however, we feel, that sadly, Gordon Brown is not in touch with 'real life'.

Energy is costing the residential household an average of 30% more year on year, but wage rises are restricted to below inflation.

Energy suppliers are making huge profits and their shareholders are making a fortune, with 19% offered to them this year.

Opec today, advised a reduction in oil production today, because the price of crude oil fell below $100US. So keeping current 'inflated', prices high. In truth, while suppliers here in the UK are charging more, the costs of crude have been falling, as have gas and electricity imported from outside the UK.

To any 'sensible' person, it appears that government are not trying to help individuals, as much as they could, but are ensuring that the rich are 'secure'.

Help that is available now.
If you are aged 60 to 79 and you are entitled to receive a Winter Fuel Payment, this year
you will get either £125 or £250, depending on your circumstances in the qualifying week
(15 to 21 September 2008).

If you are aged 80 or over and you are entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment, this year you
will either £200 or £400, depending on your circumstances in the qualifying week.

In line with changes to State Pension age for women, the qualifying age for Winter Fuel
Payments will rise gradually between 2010 and 2020, from 60 to 65. This means that
from winter 2010/11 onwards, both men and women will need to have reached women's
State Pension age by the end of the September qualifying week.

Although, we at DDLG really appreciate the help above, we feel that we should make the following comments.

First, it should be noted that EVERY PENSIONER, gets this payment, no matter how much income or savings you have, you even get this, if you live outside the UK.

It is not a payment designed to help low income pensioners, for it it was, it would only be paid to those who have little income and low savings.

Regarding loft insulation and other offers, that Gordon Brown has offered.

First, we should tell Gordon, that the British Winter is not as cold as it used to be and many of our members already live in modern, well insulated homes. Their problem, is the HOT and HUMID periods, we now experience in the UK. Because modern homes do not 'breath', many have been forced to use cooling systems in their homes, for longer periods than they need to use 'heating' to keep warm. It costs far more, to 'cool' an area, than 'heat' it. Believe us, that being too hot, is just as dangerous to the old and vulnerable, as being, too cold.

It is all well and good, advising people to use 'less' energy, but most of those we speak to, already have changed, every light bulb, stopped taking baths every day, stopped using washing machines and fitted low energy light bulbs too, they have taken every step possible, besides fitting a wind turbine on their garden. Oh, sorry, some have done that too (B&Q offered one).

For many, it is just not possible to use less.

Even fuel for cars is a talking point.
Some members have had flat batteries on their cars, because they do not use them for 3 days or more, garage advise, 'get out more', use your car, use the fuel to charge the battery. Not really an 'ecco' society. Try to save and industry just advise you 'have to' use more than you need, just to maintain equipment that is inferior. (Yes, car batteries were better years ago, they lasted weeks, even in the 'dynamo' days).

All the above said, the answer would be simple, the price of fuel, should be 'regulated'. Linked to costs and profits restricted. That way, every citizen would get a fair deal.

Sufferers of Raynaud's Disease, normally have the following symptoms.

Cold weather and or stress can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to coldness, numbness, colour change, throbbing and swelling of extremities including fingers and toes.

In the UK, there are two basic benefits, that those with disabilities or illness can claim.

Currently, Incapacity Benefit, which is really sick pay and is paid to those who are too ill to do any work at all.

Disability Living Allowance (or Attendance Allowance for those over 65). This is paid, because one is so ill, that they can not manage by themselves and or, they have 'severe difficulty getting around',

Have a look at the requirements within the links above and claim, if you think you qualify.

The female mosquito uses an anticoagulant, followed by a sealant, to stop the wound bleeding after it has finished.

Most humans develop an itch and a blister or a rash,  in the area of the bite.  The itching normally stops after about a week, but the rash stays for 2 to 3 weeks.

You should visit your GP, so a professional can view your rash and provide a positive diagnoses and treatment, as the mosquito can also pass on a number of infections, such as Malaria etc.

Normally, it is £6000, in relation to Pension Credit.

Full details here

There has been a new ruling regarding obtaining benefits in another EU country, including Cyprus.

If you move to live abroad in another EEA state or Switzerland on or after 18 October 2007 you
can export AA, DLA (care), CA and incapacity benefit, if you meet certain conditions.

You can not export means tested benefits, such as Income Support.

Full Details Here (PFF Format)

If you disagree with a decision about your Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Attendance
Allowance (AA) you can either:

     ask the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to look at its decision again or
     appeal to an independent appeal tribunal.

You can challenge the decision for any reason within one month of the date on the decision letter.
Ask the Disability and Carer's Service (DCS), if possible in writing, to look at the decision again.
Their contact details will be on the decision letter.

More Details Here

As you say, DLA is provided in three levels of 'care'

The higher level looks to the fact that you need 'care' 24 hours a day.

In reality, one needs, not to look at night time, in the normal sense,  but rather how ill or disabled one is.

If, for example, because of pain, one catched sleep, at any time during the 24 day, not in a 6-10 hour cycle, but rather an hour or two, here and there, than obviously 'care' is needed 24 hours a day.

It can be said too, that, if one can not get in and out of bed alone, or needs to be turned, or even just support, because of the pain involved, during a night time sleep period, then, again 24 hour 'care' could be beneficial.

We should stress too, that one does not necessarily, be getting the 'care', just that they need it.

Everything depends on how you complete the application forms and of course, exactly what is wrong. It is important to get an accurate diagnoses when putting in a claim, sadly, just, 'I have a pain in my leg', is not good enough. You need the correct medical name for the condition, which should be confirmed with your GP or hospital consultant. If the symptoms you describe go along similar lines to others with the same condition and that condition is accepted by the DLA unit, you on the way to obtaining a successful award.

If you are on Low 'care', then you have to go through 'middle' to obtain the high level (24 hour) care award.

Six months is a long time to have to tolerate an undiagnosed stomach pain, we would advice visiting your GP and very politely, asking for a re-referral to, perhaps another consultant. In truth, we would have far greater anxiety regarding continuing ill health to the extent you describe, without a prognoses. Worrying about the few pounds that a DLA award would provide, will not help your current medical condition.

Do see your GP, they are there to be of service.

While we are on about the subject of 24 hour care. We would like every reader to give a thought the the 'carer' in these situations, we wish government could do so. We do not really mean the weekly rate of £50.55, although, this is barley adequate, what we mean is the fact, that the 'carer' too is doing without enough sleep, worried bout the one they 'care' for, mostly, for years.

So, please, if you can help a 'carer', if you are a relative and your mum or dad is caring for their partner, then do give them a thought. We really do know how hard life is, how difficult it is for relatives to help, but do try, PLEASE.

There is a myth that one is allowed to have guests stay in your home for up to 3 nights each week.

However, Income Support rules, include:-
Also tell us if. • someone comes to stay in your home. • someone leaves your home.
• someone else in your home starts to get Income Support.

So, you must tell the DWP every time you have a 'guest' stay overnight.

For a 'regular' guest, or guests, the DWP, may reduce your benefit by an equal amount that your guest would have to stay at a modest bed and breakfast, or guest house.

On last estimates, over 90% of single claimants did not advise the DWP of a relative, boyfriend or just friend coming to stay.
Only a few are caught. However, if your guest is rowdy or obvious, then there is more of a possibility of a passer by or visitor to another address noticing you have a guest and could report the fact to the DWP.

It is very important too, to remember, that claimants have tried every avenue in the past, such as the 'guest' leaving every night, however, the DWP are aware of this and still consider all day guests as 'guests'.

Sadly for your girlfriend and yourself, the answer must be 'Yes'.

Remember, the DWP, only work by the information they have at hand.

In your own words, you say, you work away and only get to stay at your girlfriends, once every two weeks.
You also, have your mail sent to your girlfriends address, so that is rather, the clincher.

What the DWP expect, is, that, a working partner or if you prefer, 'house sharer', would be expected to 'contribute' to household expenses, so, they would effectively reduce your girlfriends benefits.

Is it true, that Bill Oddie, the BBC's  British wildlife man, said on a TV news program, that he thinks his 5 year old and under grandchildren are allowed to roam the streets at night, 9 pm and beyond. Also, that all children of whatever age, should be allowed to road the streets after 9 pm and do anything they want to, just because they have 'nothing to do'. Also, he said, that he appreciates the old or infirm need peace in their own home, but that it does not matter that they lose a little sleep, as long as kids keep themselves amused.

I always though this man was a nice caring family man, who protected little birds and loved nature.

My God, before police acted around here, we had gangs of 100 kids and some adults, who created a terrible din, vandalised property and made everyone's life a total misery. Not just after 9 pm Mr  Bill Oddie, but from early morning to past 21 am, even all night occasionally.

The result, lack of sleep illnesses for many residents, fights, rows and even, yes, murders. Parents of most of the kids, just tell one to f*** o**, if you complain. No caring for any other resident, as long as they sit there lazing and not looking after their children, as they should be.

This mad needs a bunch of these so called 'bored kids' to visit all his nature reserves and find something to smash up, such as birds nests, instead of breaking car windows and other vandalism, I am sure this so called 'carer', would be up in arm, disgusted and wonder how anyone could destroy the peace and tranquility of a nice bird sanctuary and kill the young birds.

Mmm, so the fact that resident in our streets can not get any peace in their own home, to unwind after a hard day's work, or the shiftworker, can get no sleep because of the awful din outside, or having to contact police to get that crime number, to get that windscreen fixed, for the fifth time that week, dear God, these people p*** me off.

Before any of you lazy good for nothing parents shout at this old un, I am not old, well, I don't think I am, I am a junior doctor on 16 hour shifts and I care for these kids at night, with fight injuries, knife wounds, drugs etc. etc.

I am tired, most of my colleagues feel tired too, not only because of long hours, but that problem getting any rest, because of the louts outside.

Thank you so much for letting me let off steam on your web site, I feel a little better now, sorry for the star words, hope you forgive a frustrated chap. 24/7. My question regards the legality of this situation.

No problem Dr. Roger,  you are very Welcome.

We feel saddened by the fact, that we have to confirm that Bill Oddie, did in fact suggest that old people should do without sleep, rest and peace, for the rest of their remaining years and yes, his reason, because kids have nothing to do at night and yes, under 5's should be allowed to play out or do whatever they want to, without any responsible adult, even up to and after 9 pm.

Now, unlike you Roger, many of our hardened members are indeed 'old' and 'infirm' and yes, as yourself and your colleagues, we too find it difficult to get enough rest, because of continuous auntie social behaviour outside our homes, in streets.

Parents who refuse to take responsibility of their children, or guests are a virtual pain in our society.

Without rules and correct discipline, most children and sadly, many teens and young adults, will do things, that not only annoy, but amount to criminal behaviour.

Some do simple things like,  riding bikes across traffic and without lights at night, using a street as a play area, making rude gestures at traffic, even, in some cased, when there is a huge play area, only a few yards away. They fight, carry weapons, such as knives, knuckle dusters and gas sprays. Many drink alcohol, yes, Bill Oddie, ever 5 - 6 year olds and don't tell us your grandchildren do not do these things, if they are out alone, how do you know what they do? Many doi far more serious things, which we will not go into here.

That is the real issue, if children only have older kids, teens and anti-social behaviour adults, who are probably on drugs or drink every night, as a guide or companionship, they will copy, just to be accepted into the crowd.

Irresponsible parents will say, why should my child be forced to use lights on their bike when it is dark.

We say, so they can be seen by traffic, so they are taught that we ALL have to abide by the rules and this one is simple.

Children will ride their bike in the dark, not on the left side of the road, but anywhere on the road.

As an example of child endangerment:
We asked 10 of our members, to ask any group of children aged 10 and under, in their street, if they knew that they needed lights at night and, if they knew, that they should always ride on the left side of the road, signal at junctions etc.

The reports we have received are scary, many of thos aged under 6, had to really think, which of their hands was in fact their left. Most of those asked, said it does not matter, our parents say we can do what we want and ride wherever we want to. No one does anything. Older children just did not care at all.

Very scary stuff, as we have said.

It is an offence to leave young children unattended, either in or out of the home. There MUST be a RESPONSIBLE adult in charge who is responsible for their safety and of course their actions, so if your out with your child and a stone is thrown and it beaks a window, be prepared to pay for the damage and labour to fix it.

Boredom or nothing to do, is no excuse for allowing your children to do whatever they want to, especially, if what they do, is annoys residents in the area they are in.

Regarding Bill Oddie, Richard, you have already said most of what we would say to such a two paced person, as you said, 'My God', what a fake he is. To declare on national TV, that he, of all people, couldn't give a hoots about older people or residents of streets. Where citizens can deprive other of peace and quiet in their own home and ever deprive hard working Doctors and other essential hard working people of their sleep. The fact he appears not to care what his 5 year old grandchild is up to, or his safety, is unbelievable.

Just to advise readers.

We, as citizens of the UK, have, impregnated 'in law'. the 'Right to Peace and Quiet' in our own homes. There is no law in our land that says. 'Citizens can do what they want to' or 'Citizens can do anything they want'. Not even where they are BORED or HAVE NOTHING TO DO.

We, as a nation, remain one of the very best in the world, because most of us have consideration for others need to have their rest. Only  'loud, lawless, louts', behave in the way you described

It is true that we do have a generation of young adults, who feel they can do anything they want to, that goes for the next generation too, now our teens, also the future generation of now young children, allowed to roam the streets late at night.
It is the parents of all these 'offenders' that can be blamed for all that happens that is bad, in our society, no matter what that is.

What is your child doing right now?

Has he or she, a knife, or even a gun, do you really know?

More simplistic, Has your child lights on that bike, can motorists, really see the bike darting up the wrong side of that street. or does your child know the highway code?

If you can not answer with 100% certaincy, you child is in real danger.

If you can, or do not care, you are a bad parent, please keep all our children safe, they are our nations and your future.

Richard, may we thank you and all the staff at every hospital in out nation, for your hard work, long hours and diligence to your care for your fellow human beings. Our ambulance crews, our firefighters, all those who work hard to keep our infasuture going and save our lives too. Yes, THANK YOU ALL.

Although we are tempted to apologise for Bill Oddie, we feel, that he would not be prepared to apologise for his stupid and senseless remarks, as we have met and responded to thousands just like him, who care nothing for other human beings at all. Sadly, they do not even care about the welfare or future of their children or grandchildren. For they see not, any wrong in their attitude.

Sorry Bill Oddie, but next time, you publisise the fact some vandal or collector has stolen that rare bird egg, or took pot shots at any bird or animal, do not come to us, the general public, for sympathy,  you have quite clearly advised us, that you do not really care about any living creatures well being.

Finally, it must be said again.

PLEASE EVERYONE, DO KEEP OUR CHILDREN 'SAFE' AND:

REMEMBER, OLD PEOPLE CAN BE YOUR GRAN, YOUR GRANDDAD, YOUR AUNTIE, EVEN YOUR MUM OR DAD AND YES, GOD WILLING, YOU TOO, WILL ONE DAY, FIND THAT YOU ARE OLD AS WELL.

ALL THE POPULATION DESERVE THEIR REST AND DESERVE THEIR RIGHT TO HAVE THAT SECURITY OF PEACE IN THEIR HOME.

A 'named' driver, who is not the DLA claimant, can use a Motability lease hire car, to travel to and from their place of employment. If they do so, the car of course must be 'taxed' in the normal way, as a car taxed as 'disabled' must only be used by and or solely for the use of the person named on the appropiate exception certificate.

That named driver can not use the car for any other reason, than that disclosed to Motability Finance and Royal & Sun Alliance.

Normally, one would repay any benefits received in connection with the injury, after receipt of award,

We would not expect the DWP, to ask for any repayment, because a claimant has refused any settlement offer.

Your legal representative should be advising you regarding any potential losses involved, during a period of claim, as well as after an award has been accepted.

Much depends on the amount of an award.
 

Yes, your wife will not be able to claim Pension Credit until she is age 60+.

At that time, she will get her state pension and lose her Carers Allowance.

There is always a complication, if, within a 'couple',  the wife is the one that claims Income Support, so expect some exchanges of data from the Pension Credit people.

With you already getting income support, you will find that you may well have no increase in actual income, only the complication of the change over.

Remember that your DLA should NOT be taken into account as income (some people at the PC dept., seem to take that as income), when they do the calculation.

Most couples in your circumstances, continue to collect Income support, until the male claimant is age 60, as the male, is the one who has originally claimed, because of their inability to work and the wife leaves employment to care for the husband. However, as we say, since you say, your wife claims Income Support, she will indeed need to claim Pension Credit when she reaches age 60.  Normally, the DWP contact a claimant and transfer a claim to the Pension Credit people.

Your wife may need to remind the PC people that she currently claims Carers Allowance. Even though, she will lose the monetary value of CA, she will be granted an 'underlying right to Carers Allowance', this will raise he threshold of Pension Credit and other benefits such as housing and council tax benefit.
 

It is complicated, but simplistic in a way.

DLA will continue to be paid for the first 26 weeks of a temporary absence. You can be
paid for longer if the absence:
• is temporary and
• is for the purpose of being treated for an illness or disability which began before you left the country and
• the Secretary of State agrees it is consistent with the proper administration of the Act to
pay for longer.

DLA, is the subject of an EU ruling and we await a decision from the DWP. Until then, the above rule applies.

You can be paid IB for up to 26 weeks of a temporary absence, but no longer.

As you are 55, if you do not continue to pay your NI contributions, until you are aged 60, you will lose some of your UK state pension.

To be 'British', is an individual who lives or is a citizen of one of the Countries (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland), or, one of the remaining British 'colonies', such as,  Bermuda, Cayman, Turks & Caicos, British Virgin Islands and Anguilla (examples).

Also, an individual born in a British Country or Colony, or a decedent of an original citizen, can call themselves, British, if they desire.

To hold a 'British Passport', or to be eligible to hold one.

Recommended vaccines when travelling abroad are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Polio, Tetanus and flu vaccines.

Australia is one of the safest places to travel to, so major immunization is not mandatory.

But do remember, that there are different animals, snakes, spiders and sea creatures that can either bite, sting and can be considered dangerous.

So basically, no specific vaccinations are required to visit Australia, unless you are from or travelling through certain areas with infections. But please check this with the airline you are travelling with or your travel agent before your departure.

Have fun, yes, have A party, Yes, but to generate the whole aspect of the Olympic Game as a 'Rave', is ideology we would expect from those who support and promote illegal raves and lawlessness. Not the attitude one would expect from professionals seeking to promote the UK as a world economic leader. My god, what is the world going to think of the people of the UK, that we all just want to party all the time ands NEVER get any work done at all.

The effort and work done by all those superb athletes, the organisers and everyone involved in brining the games to the world, all undermined and displaced.

Would there be any point in protesting and, if so, who would we complain too, before it is too late, or is it already too late?

We see massive security issues within their portrayal, as well, as a subtle destruction of the Britain we, as a people, love so much. The games in every venue, portray a country, that is why Beijing, portrayed the history of the nation of China and its rich diversity in ethnic people, the harmony of their life.

The London organisers of the 2012 Olympic games, obviously, thought that only certain sections of the suburbs of London and a very small part of the whole population should be portrayed as Great Britain.

From what we have read, from the attitude of media and those organisers, we feel, there is probably no point in complaining to the organisers, or even Boris, the Mayor of London, as they are all for the type of promotion that we experienced. They will not, or give the impression, that they would shout down any complaints.

You could try writing to the Prime Minister and the opposition leaders, to see, if these professional leaders, can see the possible error of promoting GB Ltd., as a Party on Dude nation, or would they prefer the message of professionalism and coherence in our great nation of hard working countries.

Just as a thought to those London organisers.

The UK is made up of four great countries. England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

London, is indeed, the 'Capital City', But, although the population consists on millions of peoples from all around the world, these people only represent a small volume of the entirety of what is Great Britain. We, of the United Kingdom, are a proud and interlinked people, who in the majority, are pleased to be considered as British. We work hard and achieve the impossible. There is time for play and time for work, most of us know this and do work very hard indeed.

In truth, most of the UK committee members are so disappointed in the London games changeover, especially after the superb showing provided by China, that, although, we will of course, respond to questions, we do not really want to get involved to any great extent. Our reasons are simple, it is probably hopeless, even for us to change the attitude of the London Olympics organisers, who have probably cost the nation billions, in lost orders, now and in the future. The damage, has, in effect, being done. It will be hidden, in this time of recession and no growth. Thousands of people, losing their jobs and homes, millions effected by loss of income. Pensioners and the disabled stood on, as if we are an an annoyance to those who only want party.

Perhaps we can move on and continue our fight for the disabled.

If is true The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games Ltd (LOCOG) is a private company, so, not subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2000. However, it appears they will take enquiries, but of course, are not required to respond under law.

I watched the start of the 2012 preparations and sadly, felt rather ashamed. The type of music, the commentary, the enphasise on 'party' and total disruption. If this is an example of what we can expect in the London Olympics, God help the UK, we will, I feel, be the laughing stock of the world. What are the organisers thinking of?

We join with you and hope that someone in China reads our humble pages, so that we can offer our own congratulations to the team of organisers that provided the World with the most efficient spectacular, that was the Olympic games of 2008.
Not only were the sports teams superb in their efforts, but the volunteers that helped our UK team and all the 200+ sports teams through the games. Especially, we would like to offer our congratulations to the team, of girls who were, in our opinion, absolutely superb in their presentation and support they offered the community at the games.

Well Done, one and all in China.

Indeed, the HD coverage was most excellent, the service, really did show how much better the HD picture is, compared. Yes, we too noticed that very occasionally, commentary was, not up to the BBC's usual high standard.

As to your comments regarding the build up to the London Olympics, mm, we do see, what you mean. Commentators were perfectly correct in announcing that the London games would take on more of a 'Party' venue, rather than the serious aspect of the Olympic message of sports professionalism and harmony.

The selection of music and artists can make or break a venue. While many will no doubt enjoy those selections we have experienced this afternoon, there are millions, who would not. Those who provided the venue, no doubt would call those who did not enjoy or think the venue was great, kill joys or another such slap in the face statement, we are sure. For that is the message we received, loud and clear, like it or lump it.

China's display and venue was enjoyed by virtually ever person who watched, no matter who, where they lived, their age or sex did not count, again, we say, well done China, you lead the way to say 'ONE WORLD, ONE DREAM'.

PLEASE LEARN YOUR LESSON LONDON, OR YOU WILL RUE THE DAY.
BE WARNED ADVERTISERS, THE WORLD WILL SWITCH OFF, AS DID THE UK, TODAY.

We asked 100 members in small towns in the UK, when did the public start to come out after the Olympics closing venue. 90% responded with the following. 80%, advised the streets came alive with playing children at 3.30pm. Cars stated up, dogs were walked, all, as usual. So, all the people could stand of the London display, was 15 minutes. The streets were quiet from 1pm to 3.30, by the way.

Lessons to be learnt wee think

The Beijing 2008 Olympic Games were definitely transmitted in High Definition by the BBC on BBC HD.

Yes, the picture quality was and is an improvement on standard TV.

We tested on a HD TV 32" and found that 99% of all transmissions on HD are about as good as it gets.

It is true that standard TV (digital), is degraded. It reminds us of highly compressed 1980's early Microsoft AVI movies, but in full screen. It is true, that as you get older, your eyesight may not be as good as it was. But, TV picture quality is not as good as it used to be.

What we can say, from personal experience of  people who lived through the period, is this.

When the UK upgraded TV from 405 lines mono, to 626 lines, TV improved in picture quality.
When 625 lines BBC2 transmitted in colour for the first time, the picture was most excellent.

When satellite TV first came in, picture quality was better than standard 625 line TV.

Over the years, quality has degraded, sad, but very true.

If TV only contained the 10 channels of any real value, then all the trash channels free space could be assigned to HD and everyone would be pleased. Add good programming and we would be ecstatic.

Basically, countrywide, you can get HD TV, using a HD ready TV, by getting a set top box from Sky TV at reduced cost, but pay monthly subscriptions. Virgin TV also have a similar arrangement.

Freesat HD started earlier in the year.

This involves buying a set top box, a Bush, grundig, Goodman's (all the same inside, by Alba), or Humax HD box.
Prices range from around £120, to £150, for these. No monthly subs.

The Alba, has a softer, more defined HD picture than the Humax, we feel, the Alba is the best picture quality.
However, customer support from Alba, is a waste of space, so do not bother asking them anything, just ask those who use them, you will get a better response. Remember, these boxes are new and customers are what we call 'beta testers'. Sp expect some quirks.

Here is a quick tip.  If your set top box goes wrong, just switch off the power to it, leave it for 15 minutes and try again. Sky and the others, will reset and work again.

Freesat gives HD on BBC HD and ITV, but ITV only transmit HD occasionally and on very few programs. The main one Harley Street, ended its run last week and, to date, we have no idea on other regular programs that ITV will be transmitting in HD. Channel 5 is missing from Freesat, but expected to join later this year. Channel 4, have no plans to transmit on Freesat, but have an upgraded channel on Sky.

Without going into more depth, we should end there.

Enjoy HD, it is better.

 If you are paid another benefit related to the income you receive such as Income Support, the amount you or your partner get may be affected if you receive industrial injuries disablement benefit or another award relating to your claim. National Insurance benefits you get, e.g. incapacity benefit, will not be affected.

It is not possible for us to access how your new award will affect other benefits you receive, only that it is possible and probable, that any 'means tested' benefit you have been getting or claim for, in relation to this particular injury, could be reduced.

Although, all those concerned should know when you get your award, it will do no harm to advise the council and DWP, of the facts related to the award, that way, you will not have any unexpected shocks later on.

If the pain in your ankle allows you to ride a bicycle, so be it.

However, it would seem to us, that putting the required pressure on that ankle, may aggravate the condition.

If others see you riding a bicycle and know you claim DLA for Arthritis in your ankle joint, they may feel that your condition is perhaps not as bad as you have disclosed to the DWP.

There is no regulation that states that one who claims DLA, can not ride a bicycle, however, we do advise that you be prepared for a review of your claim if you decide to do so.

Have you not considered hiring a Motability Scooter through Motability, this would not cost all of your Mobility DLA payment and provide you with assured mobility until you can drive again.

If the employee cannot return to work at the end of her maternity leave because of illness she should be treated as back at work and on sick leave. She should comply with your normal sickness procedures.

This means, you would be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay, followed by Incapacity Benefit after 28 weeks, if you are still sick.

You would need a sick note to cover your absence from work, for as long as your sickness continues.

However, we believe, you have not been paying your NI contributions and have not reported to the Jobcentre as seeking work, so, there will be a gap in your NI record.

In this case, you visit your doctor who will provide a NHS sick note. You will then claim Incapacity Benefit. If you have little or no savings and are refused IB because on your contribution loss, you may be entitled to Income Support instead.

For the last 5 years, I have had to tolerate young people in my street, 90% of whom, do not live here, not, what I would call, 'playing', but rather, being aggressive, annoying and occasionally, violent. They damage cars and properly, personally, I have had to fork out over £100, in car damage. This problem is worse than it sounds, as it goes on for so long, from 9pm through to 3 in the morning, first, it is small children, then older ones, then teens and finally, young adults and teens. It is a real nightmare. I just can not portray the language, attitude and, yes, fear they and, to be honest, their parents, put into my life. Kids, as young as 3, left to roam and do what they want, believe, me, they really do, just what they want to as well. I can not get any shops to deliver here, as they say, their drivers and goods are in positive danger. My neighbour needed an ambulance, they delayed their arrival, as they said they could not come onto our estate, without a police escort.

However, if I or others call the police, it is usually the next day they arrive,. too late of course.

We live in fear in our own homes.

Now, that is not the worse of it. My granddaughter lives in another country and was doing an essay about schools and descendants and wanted a photo of the schools I went to.

So, off I went to take a photo of my old school.

Within 10 minutes of taking the photo, I was back home. The police came to my house, the said I had been taking photos of the children. I said it was my old school and just wanted a photo. There were no children in the school, as it is school holidays. They did not listen, they handcuffed me and took me to the police station, outside my house, about 20 teens were laughing and taunting me, the police did nothing except put me in their car and move that crowd away from the front of it. At the police station, I was sat down and waited for an hour and a half, then an officer took me into a small room and took off the handcuffs, asked me to tell them what happened. He believed me and said, I was free to go, obviously, it was a misunderstanding.

I got home, found the police had been in my home, took my camera, computer, video recorder, all my DVD's and videos. These they kept for 5 days, then said I could collect them.

By the way, I am a 75 year old grandmother.

I think this country has gone absolutely stark raving mad, the police are pathetic and treat old and honest people with utter contempt. They are suspicious of anyone with a camera, but allow parents to mistreat their children, by not disciplining or caring for them correctly and really do think that a child is attacked, if their photo is taken, but is not affected by neglect or youths fighting with them, or encouraging them to commit crime.

I feel like giving up, life in the UK is not worthy living anymore, but why should I give anyone the satisfaction of just killing myself, they will do it for me in no time at all.

God help us all

Good for you, please do not think of killing yourself, that way, the bad guys win.

There are laws to protect you from yobs, use them if you feel you should.

Government, police and society, realy do need to examine their motives and of course their conciences in these matters.

We know of no additional payment that a person claiming Carers Allowance can apply for, that is based solely on the fact they are a 'carer'.

You should ask the lady from Social Services, or the Webmaster of the site you visited, or wherever, you acquired the information, for details of an official source of confirmation.

We have found that carers even find it difficult to get a weeks break from their 'carers' duty, let alone acquire a lump sum every year, by way of respite care and that involves the one they care for going into residential care for the period. Most carers do not want that. In fact, many of those caring for sick, elderly or dependant adults are children and not supported in any way whatsoever.

We should stress that government are currently modifying the welfare state and changes will be apparent over the next few years. Non designed to help the sick or disabled, elderly or carers, rather to force many to accept lower incomes than they have now.

Carers Allowance is taxable and can be taken into account when Income Support, Housing help and other benefits are calculated. So, in effect, many older people on Pension Credit, could lose the two to five pound they get now, as well as housing benefit automatic assessment, if, their income rose by £200 per year.

The weekly rate is £50.55. This is reduced by the amount of certain other benefits, including State Pension, that you receive. If you receive certain other benefits at £50.55 or more a week, Carer's Allowance cannot be paid to you as well.

If your carer receives Carer’s Allowance, a Carer Premium of £27.75 a week can be included in
any Income Support, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit or Pension Credit or (from October
2008) income related allowance of Employment and Support Allowance they may be receiving.
Your carer may also receive the Carer Premium if they have claimed Carer’s Allowance and are
entitled to it, but does not actually receive it because it overlaps with State Pension or another
benefit they receive.

We hope this helps you understand why a council may ask a claimant in receipt of DLA, middle or high rate 'care', if they have a person claiming Carers Allowance based on the claimants DLA.

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We always advise paying by credit card and not by debit card, when dealing with suppliers by post or shipping.

The whole idea of paying via Paypal, is to offer you, the buyer, protection. If, for example, a seller does not send out the goods.

We have also been let to believe, that buying on Ebay, through Paypal, means, that when you pay, Paypal hold your money, only paying the seller, after you, the buyer, advises, Ebay, through feedback, that you have received your goods and are happy with them. That way, if your goods are not received, the seller, will not be paid. There is usually, a delay, but at least it costs you, the buyer, nothing more than time.

Of course, if you are stating, that Paypal are now paying the seller and offering no protection whatsoever, to the buyer, then, the only advantage, we can see, is that the seller, does not know your details. In this case, one would be rather wary of the costs involved.

Here is a link to Paypal's Buyer Complaint Policy

Make sure, you have followed procedure and claim your money back from Paypal.

This is one reason why decent parents do not allow their children out to play anymore, these decent people worry that their children will mix with those who have no moral or behaviour code. Who can blame them, most parents want the very best for their children's future.

This has been the situation for years now, the reason why teenagers and young adults have gone wild, even carrying knives and guns, they are the children that were left to their own devices and have grown into callous and selfish adults.

What can we say, with violence all around them, without guidance, discipline and consideration for others, they have no adults with common sense to follow.

We feel saddened that you feel that your death would be the only release you can look forward to. We would be very surprised, if those who cause your particular misery would change their ways, even to save your life.

Be uplifted in the thought that it is only a very small minority who cause the problems you experience, while most of society are still considerate and typically British, with consideration for others need for peace, uppermost in their daily lives.

If you experience too much anti social behaviour and or are threatened with violence or property damage, do call the police. Remember there are 2 numbers to call now, 999, if a crime in happening and your life is in danger and the police local number in your phone book, if it is anti social behaviour etc. Try not to call 999, unless it is very, very urgent, as the number is now very busy.

If you are in social housing, do complain to your landlord, even if the perpetrators live in social housing and you live close by, in private, complain to the landlord. While you have the right to live in peace and quiet in your home, by LAW, they do not have the right to be noisy, violent or disruptive of your peace. The law is on your side, you just need to get the police and council to take action.

Take care and contact us, if you want to describe what you experience in full.

BBC TV has its own HD TV channel and the 2008 Olympics means some weeks of new transmissions all night and part of the day, for a few weeks. There are some decent shows on in the evening from 7pm too. ITV only available on Freesat (Not through SKY TV). ITV uses the red button to energise HD programs, only 2 or 3 a week just now.

When your wife reaches 60, she should claim her state pension.

Only if the value of Carer's Allowance, is more than the value of her state pension, will Carers Allowance continued to be paid, after she turns 60. Otherwise, she will get the state pension only. She should remind the Careers Allowance unit, that she should continue to be granted 'an underlying right to Carers allowance', even though, she will not actually get any money from its award. This will help in future claims for Pension Credit and Housing Benefit.

One does not need to be getting the state pension to apply and get Pension Credit.

If aged under 60, one claims Income Support, if aged over 60, Pension Credit.

Time will not run out, as you can claim state pension for up to a year after you reach pension age, any longer and you may lose income, as they will not back date.

In a home, claimants are usually seen as a 'couple' and in normal circumstances, the male usually makes claims for means tested benefit.

We hope this information helps.

By far the quickest and least stressful way to proceed, is to complete the forms again.

Any dispute, will take time and any additional benefit your mother may be entitled to, could be delayed.

Be aware, that any request of a review, could mean, a reduction in award, as well as an increase, so it is very important to complete the forms as accurately as you can.

If posting the completed form, you could always send recorded delivery, or by courier, any method that assures proof of delivery. However, we have had reports of such postings not getting to destination, but have no evidence to support this eventuality.

Good Luck.

At present it is not possible for foreign nationals to hold Malaysian citizenship.

One year tourist visas can be granted to foreign nationals who own properties in Malaysia.

No visa is required for a stay of up to three months in Malaysia (provided it is not for the purposes of
working) for citizens of the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canada,
Ireland and the majority of other European countries.  If you intend to stay in the country for longer,
two-month extensions are usually easy to get from immigration offices.

Visitor passes issued for entry into Peninsular Malaysia are not automatically valid for entry into the
states of Sarawak and Sabah.  The reason for this anomaly is that Sarawak and Sabah maintain
control over immigration, and even Malaysian visitors from the ‘mainland’ are required to obtain a
travel permit to come here.  Travel permit documentation is handed out on flights arriving into
Peninsula Malaysia, and Sarawak and Sabah.  Visitors have to go through immigration and have this
paperwork stamped at each entry and exit point.

As you say, it is not as straightforward as your parents believe.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office, travelling to Borneo
 

Employers cannot ask for a doctor's certificate for the first seven days of a spell of sickness though they can ask you to notify them on your first day of absence.

When you return to work after being ill, you usually have to fill in a form saying how long you were off sick for and why. This is called a self-certification or SC2 form. If your place of work does not have any of these forms, you may be able to get one from your GP surgery or from your nearest Revenue and Customs (Tax) office.

You can download and print off a copy yourself by clicking here.

If you are off sick for more than a certain length of time (usually seven days), you will need to get a sick note from your GP.

You do not require any form of certification during the first FOUR DAYS off work.

If you take up to SEVEN DAYS because you not well enough to attend work, then you must fill in a self-certificate. OVER SEVEN DAYS means you will need a doctor's certificate and will need to visit a Doctor to acquire this.

The first day of your sickness, begins the first day you should have been at work, not necessarily, the evening of the previous day, especially if you were actually at work and, of course, the personnel staff at your place of employment apparently, do not even know government supported regulations regarding sick note provision.

You take as long as you need to get better, visit your GP again, if you do not feel well enough to return to work. Antibiotics can make one feel tired and not at full strength and your GP obviously considered a need that you rest for the period of the course. While, you should be feeling better by the 6th day, you may still not feel well enough to manage as you normally would.

You should not write a self certificate for the day your employer mentions, as your NHS GP provided certificate covers you until the time of the day it was written. Although, this technicality will make no difference to the stream if things, if this is what your employer wants you to do, it should do no harm. But we still say, as you would, in effect, have been off work for the 7 days, returning on the eighth, then, unless it states in your employment record, that your employer requires private sick notes during this time, legally, you are not obliged to provide a self certificate, or NHS sick note, unlit you have been off work for 7 consecutive days.

Take care and get well.

Gas cookers, as well as gas hobs and ovens have always been available

Not a recommendation, but try the link below.

http://www.appliancesdirect.co.uk

Also
 

We have made further enquiries for you and will respond when we hear anything

We can see no legal barrier in respect of a person getting carers allowance, applying for Disability Living Allowance. A claimants biggest problem, would be to persuade the DWP, that they can not care