Housing benefit and money from family

[Doubtfuldaphne]

My dh and I are both self employed and have nearly 6K in savings which I believe is the cut off for housing benefit before deductions are made.
We are also on tax credits and have dc's.
My mother has recently come in to quite a lot of money and really wants to help us out aswell as my brothers and sisters. She wants to pay off my debts, book us a holiday, refurnish our house a bit.. the list is quite big.
Is this even allowed? I love the thought of it but I'm also terrified it's illegal. I wouldn't actually have the money myself but rather I'd accept these gifts to help us out. She said she's never had the money to be able to do this before so she would love to do it now. She also wants to buy ds a car.
So is this allowed if claiming some housing benefit?

If it comes out of her bank account then she can treat you whatever way she wants. However, if she puts a lump sum into your bank accounts then that's where the problems lay

Thank you. I've been checking since I posted for a reply I've been so worried! No, she won't be putting large amounts in my bank account - she likes the shopping element to it I think!

Yes ,I'd agree with what sw says but why is your mum paying your debts when you have 6k savings.

We're trying to save for a deposit to buy a house and she doesn't want us touching those savings.