Controversial use of benefit money?

[1Ivebeenthinking]

Imagine an autistic person, unemployed, very little to no prospects of employment (due to systematic failures). They will avoid eating and make themselves ill, but it’s not AFRID because they will eventually eat, just not enough or often enough, and eating foods they don’t like make them feel ill, and results in their behaviour and mood being worse.

They will willingly eat more expensive, quality foods that are deemed as luxury like fresh fish, steak and berries as the texture and taste doesn’t bother them like cheaper versions do.
Do you think this autistic person has a legitimate reason for using their benefits to pay for more expensive foods? Will they be judged for this because people in work can’t afford it?

Not everybody lives in a town or anywhere near a market though.

I know. Was just giving my situation as an example.

My ds has Autism and barring the money I take to cover bills and food the rest goes on days out and breaks away to keep him stimulated. He gets one day of day services a week which costs him £50.......on paper he has a good income because he gets high rate pip and UC but doesn't stretch far at all when It's funding two adults (( also needs to pay for his carer )) to give my son a reason to get out of bed and leave the house each day.

A lot of people who have learning needs and Autism end up bed rotting with no purpose. I will not allow that to happen to my son. If people judge what his money goes on then so be it. I do not care and you shouldn't either.

@1Ivebeenthinking I think it's really good that you're eating healthy foods that make you feel better. Trust me you would get more judgmental comments if you said you spent your money on dope, take away and alcohol.
Keep on taking care of yourself lovely.❤️

Surely the question we should be asking is why can’t everyone afford to eat fresh fish and beef?

It's their money isn't it! And it's important that they eat and enjoy food.

So who is it scrutinising or policing your groceries?

Your diet sounds great. It's pretty much what my ASD DC eats. He's never been a 'beige' eater.
Do not give it another thought, spend your money how you want. It is no one else's business.

That is because you don't have to. That is right, and proper imo.

Nobody has to justify what they spend their benefit money on

Oh @1Ivebeenthinking 🫂🫂 (wo touch if it’s too overwhelming for you!)

Im in a similar boat and I get what you mean about feeling you’re not contributing etc….
Its hard when everywhere, there is this message that disabled people are scroungers that would be working if they really wanted to.

Please know that buying berries is ok. So is buying meat or fish. It’s just what a healthy diet looks like anyway, even wo the food issues you have. No one will be judging you for that!

You deserve the berries, like anyone else.
And you are worthy. Just being you is worthy. You dint need to be doing stuff fir your life to have value.

This is what happens when some people feel demonised by the Government, and the media. Some people will internalise the constant bombardment, and feel that they have to justify, or feel guilty if they enjoy anything, that Society deem that they have not 'worked for'. Hopefully not too many people are so affected, like that.

Yes, my partner is autistic and can only manage first class train travel

Same ! Has meant my daughter can indulge her love of trains in a calm environment

I can't manage buses, so get taxis.

DLA/ PIP can be spent on absolutely anything. It is intended to bring your standard of life up to the standard of a fit and healthy person
I have just bought a new rollator but also use mine to pay for a daily dog walker for my Westie, who enriches my life beyond measure
Also ready chopped vegetables and meat etc
Taxis
suitable clothing and comfortable shoes.

This thread is an excellent example of why a voucher scheme (A ridiculous idea, now defunct) would never work. Disabled people are just as individual as anybody else, and our needs are not all the same. It has been interesting to read how some people prioritise their funds, to make their lives that bit easier.

Yes, for many it really is just absorbed into household running costs to offset the higher general costs due to the condition, so for example my dyspraxic DS is having to have far more driving lessons than a typical teenager, is restricted to automatic cars which cost more, loses and breaks things all the time which need replacing, has a somewhat restricted diet, struggles with things like using storecards to get discounts.

Yes, for many it really is just absorbed into household running costs to offset the higher general costs due to the condition

And this is one of the reasons that I find what this Government is proposing, to be very shortsighted, and to the detriment, of the amount of disabled people already struggling to manage, in these testing times. Some people are already having to spend their PIP outside of their disability, due to the rising cost of living, though I understand that is not what you are saying in your case.

Unfortunately I dint think it’s a defunct idea.
DWP is currently sending letters to people who receive PIP, with a £10 voucher, asking them to fill a questionnaire on how they spend their PIP…..

I filled in the consultation last year strongly opposing the voucher scheme, wrote to my MP too. It is an appalling idea.

I’m autistic and have issues with texture. I also have allergies. I’m able to hold a good job. Therefore no one comments on the fact that I spend a great deal of money on food. I rarely spend money in other categories that some people feel are important because they hold no value for me.

people on benefits are perfectly capable of managing their money and prioritizing their needs. If good food is what this person needs most, then that is where the budget should be focused.

OP, you can choose to spend your money as you see fit, and I think you should eat whatever you need to eat in order to stay as happy and healthy as you can. It isn't for anyone else to judge because they are not walking in your shoes or living your life.

Are they now? And what is the voucher for exactly?🤔

Frozen are a pretty good alternative.