Compassion in advocacy – Aaliya’s experience with Hopscotch Women’s Centre

How empathy and support transformed a struggling young woman’s battle with disability benefits 

Situation

Aaliya, a 29-year-old woman living alone in Brent, was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) as a teenager. This neurological condition has progressively impacted her life, causing vision loss, muscle weakness, coordination difficulties, fatigue, and mobility issues. Additionally, Aaliya’s mental health has been severely affected, with feelings of anxiety, frustration, and depression becoming more prevalent over the years.

Support Provided 

Aaliya faced significant difficulties renewing her Personal Independence Payment (PIP), a benefit designed to help with extra costs associated with long-term health conditions or disabilities. She was redirected between different staff members at another organisation several times, which exacerbated her anxiety and frustration. 

Aaliya reached out to Hopscotch Women’s Centre for support with her application. When she arrived, she was visibly irritable, exasperated, and anxious, expressing how overwhelming the PIP application process had become for her.

Our Welfare Adviser at Hopscotch Women’s Centre immediately acknowledged Aaliya’s difficult day and empathised with her feelings. Understanding the urgency and complexity of her situation, the Adviser provided comprehensive step-by-step assistance ensuring that all necessary sections were filled out accurately and thoroughly. The Adviser also helped Aaliya gather and organise the required medical evidence to support her application, including detailed reports from her neurologist. 

The Adviser made sure Aaliya understood the process and timelines which helped alleviate some of Aaliya’s anxiety and uncertainty. With the support from Hopscotch, Aaliya’s PIP renewal application was successfully processed.

Impact

Aaliya expressed immense relief and gratitude for the help provided. The successful processing of her PIP application ensured that she could access the financial support needed to manage her condition and maintain a level of independence. Aaliya’s case highlights the critical importance of accessible, empathetic support services.