Megan has been part of the Fightback team for over two years, with her main role focused on form filling and supporting clients through the application process. She first joined the team at just 16 years old while studying for her A-levels and is now 19 and nearing the end of her first year at university, where she is studying law. Alongside university life, Megan works remotely and takes on many of the team’s out-of-hours forms, helping to ensure clients continue to receive support even outside the usual office hours. Her dedication, reliability and willingness to help have made her a valued member of the team from a very young age.
When she is not working or studying, Megan is fully embracing student life — surviving mainly on pot noodles, Red Bull and spending time with friends. That said, she equally enjoys quieter evenings curled up in bed with a cup of tea and a good book. Megan genuinely loves the work she does and the clients she speaks to. Although she is not always physically in the office, she always enjoys coming back to see the team and helping to take some of the workload and admin pressure off everyone around her.
Amy has been an Advocate with Fightback for over eight years and is also part of the Mandatory Reconsideration team. She primarily supports clients with PIP, UC50 and ADP application forms, helping people navigate what can often feel like an overwhelming process with reassurance, knowledge and practical support. Over the years, Amy has also earned herself the unofficial title of “Queen of Blue Badge Applications” thanks to her expertise and determination in helping clients secure the support they need.
Powered almost entirely by caffeine, Amy is known for being focused and hardworking in the office — but when it comes to the Christmas party, it’s a completely different story. Once the music starts, the dance floor rarely stands a chance.
Caroline is one of the original Fightback team members and previously worked alongside Michelle years ago as a form filler before returning to the team full-time in 2024 — although, as she likes to joke, she clearly did not learn her lesson the first time around. Her main role focuses on form filling, but like most people at Fightback, her day rarely sticks to just one job title. Alongside supporting clients with forms, Caroline also handles VIP reviews, emails, Mandatory Reconsideration filing, administration, problem solving and pretty much anything else that gets thrown her way — apart from answering the phone whenever she can possibly avoid it.
Caroline is also officially responsible for the lunchtime brew rounds, a role she takes extremely seriously. She is known for her strong opinions on people touching her mug, desk or chair, her slightly concerning love of Spam and her trademark phrase, “Who the hell is that?” whenever someone knocks at the door. Outside of work, Caroline enjoys tap dancing, gardening, creative projects and spending time with her husband and dog. She is also incredibly proud of her two sons — one a singer and the other an actor — which means life outside of Fightback is just as busy and entertaining as life inside it.
However, according to the team, Caroline’s favourite task of all is annoying Chloe whenever possible. Everyone needs hobbies, after all.
Danielle is one of the newest members of the Fightback4Justice team, having joined at the end of January. Since starting, she has been trained by Caroline to complete PIP forms and has quickly become a valued part of the team, supporting clients with callbacks and general enquiries.
Danielle has especially enjoyed getting to know and chat with the many lovely clients who come through Fightback each day. While still learning the ropes, she openly admits that the world of benefits can sometimes feel like its own language, but she is continuing to build her knowledge and experience every day with enthusiasm and determination.
A proud Yorkshire lass, Danielle has happily adopted Lancashire as home. Outside of work, she is kept very busy being mum to twins, meaning life is never particularly quiet in their household.
As a family, they love spending time with friends and relatives, getting outdoors for walks and taking their rescue dog, Gabbie, on little adventures — although Gabbie certainly does her best to keep everyone on their toes as well.
Dee has been a dedicated volunteer with Fightback for nearly 14 years and is deeply passionate about supporting people living with disabilities, long-term health conditions and those struggling to navigate the benefits system. Living with disabilities herself, including Fibromyalgia and other health conditions, Dee understands first-hand how challenging everyday life can be and how overwhelming the system often feels for many people seeking support.
Her role within Fightback originally involved completing forms and creating factsheets for the VIP platform, but these days she mainly focuses on replying to Facebook messages and supporting people who need advice, reassurance or simply someone willing to listen. Dee is known for offering clear, compassionate and practical guidance to people who may feel lost, frustrated or unsure about the process, always taking the time to make others feel supported and understood.
Outside of Fightback, Dee is mum to one daughter, who works as a counsellor and certainly keeps her on her toes, as well as a proud grandparent to two wonderful grandchildren who keep life busy and full of fun. Her hobbies include gardening, socialising, online shopping and creating something out of nothing. She is also known for replying to messages at 3am in the morning — although apparently she is supposed to be asleep by then. Being part of Fightback for so many years has brought her friendship, purpose and the opportunity to help people every single day, something she will always be incredibly proud of.
Amanda has been part of the Fightback team for around nine years and, during that time, has built experience across many different areas of the organisation, becoming a true all-rounder within the team. Her role includes supporting clients with PIP applications, assisting with appeal work and Mandatory Reconsiderations, managing bookings, responding to Facebook messages and providing support across both the VIP and Free Advice lines. Amanda also plays an important role in supporting training and helping colleagues wherever needed. One of the things she enjoys most about her role is the variety each day brings and the opportunity to support both clients and the wider team. Her adaptability, experience and approachable nature make her an invaluable part of Fightback.
Outside of work, Amanda is a busy mum of two and dog mum to Tommy, who certainly keeps her on her toes. She is also excitedly preparing for her wedding this summer. In the little spare time she manages to find, she enjoys crafting and anything creative, which she sees as the perfect way to relax and unwind after a busy day.
Lou has been part of the Fightback team for the past seven years, originally joining as a volunteer before becoming a valued member of the organisation. Her role involves managing appeals, post and administration, as well as supporting Michelle and attending tribunal hearings where she plays an active role in helping clients through the process.
Over the years, Lou has become an important part of the support network that Fightback provides, bringing both compassion and dedication to every aspect of her work.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and making the most of the outdoors with their two Labradors. Whether it’s long walks, family adventures or simply getting out and about together, Louise values every opportunity to switch off and recharge.
She is also a huge fan of live music and loves going to concerts whenever she gets the chance.
This is Chloe! Since the very beginning of Fightback, she has been a key part of the team — and to show just how long that has been, during her time here she has somehow managed to have two children: “Fightback Ted” and “Fightback George”. Anyone who has been part of the journey since day one will know exactly how terrifying that sentence is and just how quickly the years have flown by.
Chloe is one of the Disability Forms Directors alongside Michelle and Amanda, supporting clients with welfare benefit applications, mandatory reconsiderations and the many challenges that come with navigating the system. If she ever happens to get five spare minutes during the day, there is a good chance she can be found doing a “very important” lunchtime Temu shop that somehow started with one item and ended with twenty-seven.
Outside of work, she is a typical busy parent, spending most of her time acting as an unpaid taxi service and professional finder of lost school shoes. She is currently planning a wedding, dreaming about her next sunny holiday and enjoys the occasional pint at the pub — although if the children ask, she has “just had to nip into work.”
Behind the humour, she is incredibly proud of everything the team has built over the years — not only the work they do, but the supportive community, friendships and network that have grown alongside it. Watching Fightback become what it is today has been something truly special.
Choe is especially proud of the incredible team around her, whose hard work and dedication often go unseen. Their commitment to supporting others is at the heart of everything Fightback stands for, and she remains deeply grateful to every single one of them.
Michelle is the founder and lead lawyer at Fightback, overseeing the legal side of the organisation, attending hearings and supporting clients across every aspect of the service. Whether it’s handling complex welfare rights cases, responding to emails, helping on the phones or jumping into Facebook support, Michelle is always hands-on wherever she is needed most. Although, by her own admission, the office scanner still remains her greatest challenge — despite having studied for two degrees. Michelle has worked in welfare rights law for over 15 years. Before qualifying as a lawyer, she spent 25 years running a stall on the famous Bury Market while raising four daughters as a single mum. Today, one of her daughters is proudly part of the Fightback Foundation team, continuing the family’s commitment to helping others.
Known for her energy, honesty and determination, Michelle is the first to admit she can be a little disorganised, permanently running late and occasionally forgetful — something the Fightback team never lets her forget. Thankfully, they also make sure she is constantly supplied with coffee, which keeps everything running smoothly. What has always remained constant throughout Michelle’s career is her passion for making sure people feel heard, supported and never left to face difficult situations alone. She is incredibly proud of the supportive community Fightback has built and the difference it continues to make to people’s lives every day.
Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her family and her 19-year-old horse. Her ideal evening involves a brandy, her dog Vera and either Bridget Jones or a good medical drama. Live music has also always been a huge part of Michelle’s life. She and her partner regularly attend festivals and concerts throughout the year — usually with a strong 80s and 90s soundtrack involved — while attempting to relive their youth whenever possible. She is also a passionate England rugby supporter and loves travelling whenever she gets the opportunity.
Michelle is mum to four daughters, nanna to five grandchildren and, despite many impressive achievements, still insists she is a terrible cook. Despite the long hours and constant demands of the role, Michelle continues to do what she loves most: helping people fight back alongside an incredible team of selfless people and lifelong friends.
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What is the Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge is a parking permit for people with disabilities or health conditions that make walking difficult. It allows you to park closer to your destination, often in designated bays or on-street spaces where parking restrictions usually apply. The scheme operates across the UK, although rules can vary slightly depending on whether you live in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
Who Can Get a Blue Badge?
You will automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if you:
- Receive the higher rate mobility component of - Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP) enhanced rate on one component, ie activity d11 or 12, a combination of the two is not automatically entitled
- Are registered blind
- Receive a War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Receive Armed Forces Compensation Scheme awards with mobility support
You may also be eligible if you have a long-term condition that makes walking very difficult, if you frequently have difficulty planning or following journeys (for example, due to a cognitive impairment), or if you have severe problems using both arms. In these cases, you may need to go through a further assessment as part of your application.
How to Apply
You apply through your local council in England, Scotland, or Wales. In Northern Ireland, applications go through the Department for Infrastructure. The simplest way to start is to apply online via the GOV.UK website, which directs your claim to the right authority.
When you apply, you’ll usually need:
- Proof of identity (such as a passport or driving licence)
- Proof of address (for example, a utility bill)
- A recent passport-style photograph
- Details of your disability or medical condition, including supporting documents if you have them
Some councils may ask for additional evidence, or invite you to an independent mobility assessment if your eligibility is not automatic.
How Long Does It Last?
A Blue Badge usually lasts for up to three years. When it expires, you need to reapply. If you no longer meet the criteria, your badge will not be renewed.
Cost
There is a small fee to issue a Blue Badge. In England, it is up to £10, and in Scotland it is £20. In Wales, badges are free.
Where You Can Use It
With a Blue Badge, you can usually park:
- In designated disabled bays
- On single or double yellow lines (for up to three hours, unless signs say otherwise)
- In pay-and-display bays without charge, in many areas
Rules do vary depending on local councils, so it’s important to check the specific guidance where you live. Misusing a badge, for example by lending it to someone else, can result in a fine.
In Summary
The Blue Badge scheme is designed to help people with serious mobility difficulties park closer to where they need to go. You can apply online or through your local council, and if your eligibility isn’t automatic you may be assessed. Badges usually last three years, and there is a small fee depending on where you live.
Fightback can help with all aspects of the claims and appeals process on VIP and with our advocacy services.
What is Adult Disability Payment (ADP)?
Adult Disability Payment is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit offered to residents of Scotland aged 16 to State Pension age who have a disability, long-term health condition, or are terminally ill. It replaces Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for working-age adults in Scotland.
The benefit is administered by Social Security Scotland, not the DWP.
Who Can Claim?
- You may be eligible if:
- You are aged 16 or over and under State Pension age
- You live in Scotland
- You have a condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months
- You are terminally ill
People already receiving PIP or DLA will be moved over to ADP automatically — you don’t need to make a new claim.
How Much Can You Get?
Daily Living Component
Standard rate: £68.10 per week
Enhanced rate: £101.75 per week
Mobility Component
Standard rate: £26.90 per week
Enhanced rate: £71.00 per week
You may qualify for one or both components depending on how your condition affects your daily life and mobility.
How to Claim
You can apply in three ways:
Online through mygov.scot
By phone on 0800 182 2222
On paper, by requesting a form from Social Security Scotland
The application has two stages:
- Part 1 confirms your basic details and eligibility.
- Part 2 asks for information about how your condition affects you, and supporting evidence from healthcare professionals or carers
If you are terminally ill, there is a fast-track application process.
Payments are backdated to the date you submit Part 1 of your application.
How Payments Work
- Paid every 4 weeks in arrears (or weekly in advance if you are terminally ill).
- Tax-free and not affected by income, savings, or employment.
- May increase entitlement to other benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance.
If You Disagree with a Decision
If you think a decision about your claim is wrong, you can ask for what is called a re-determination. This is a full review of your application.
Stage one: ask for a re-determination (within 42 days)
- You have 42 calendar days from the date on the decision letter to request a re-determination by Social Security Scotland (SSS). Late requests may be accepted with a good reason.
- Once SSS receive a valid request, they normally have 56 days to issue the new decision. If they don’t decide in time, you can go straight to appeal.
- How to request: phone 0800 182 2222, online, or use the form provided. Accessible channels (BSL/video relay/Text Relay) are available.
Tip: Include a short cover note saying which descriptors are wrong and why, and attach any new evidence.
Stage two: appeal to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Social Security Chamber)
- Deadline: 31 days from the re-determination notice. If you miss this, you can ask for permission to appeal up to 1 year from the decision date, explaining the delay.
- How to appeal: use the appeal form enclosed with the re-determination, call 0800 182 2222 to complete it by phone, or use the online route for ADP appeals.
Short-term Assistance (STA): If your award was reduced or stopped, you can apply for STA while you’re waiting on the re-determination/appeal; it pays up to the previous rate and is not repayable even if you lose. Apply when you ask for the re-determination/appeal.
In Summary
Adult Disability Payment is Scotland’s replacement for PIP and DLA, offering financial support to people with long-term health conditions or disabilities. It is available from age 16 to State Pension age, is not means-tested, and is paid every four weeks. How much you get depends on how your condition affects your daily living and mobility. Applications are straightforward to start and help is available if you need support with the forms.
Fightback can help with all aspects of the claims and appeals process on VIP and with our advocacy services.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a UK benefit that helps people who are on a low income or out of work. It combines several older benefits into a single monthly payment, including Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit and Tax Credits. Unlike PIP or DLA, Universal Credit is means-tested. That means the amount you receive depends on your earnings, savings, and household circumstances. Universal Credit can be quite complex due to ESA transitions and transistional protection. This is a basic overview of the Universal Credit benefit. If you require more tailored infomaiton, please contact our team.
Who can get it?
You may be able to claim UC if you:
- are 18 or over (some 16–17 year olds can claim in special cases)
- are under State Pension age
- live in the UK
- have savings of less than £16,000 (yours and your partner’s combined, if you live together)
You can apply whether you are unemployed, in part-time or full-time work, or self-employed.
How much do you get?
Everyone who claims UC gets a standard allowance each month. The amount depends on your age and whether you’re single or part of a couple.
- Single and under 25: £311.68 per month
- Single and 25 or over: £393.45 per month
- Couple, both under 25: £489.23 per month (for both)
- Couple, one or both 25 or over: £617.60 per month (for both)
On top of this, you may qualify for extra amounts, called elements. These can cover things like:
- children in your household
- housing costs (rent or mortgage support)
- disability or limited capability for work
- caring for someone with a disability
- childcare costs (up to 85% of what you pay)
How do you claim?
Most people apply online through the GOV.UK website. You’ll need your National Insurance number, bank details, housing information, and details about your income and any savings. You can also apply over the phone if you have difficulties with online.
Once your application is in, you’ll set up an online account (journal) to manage your claim. You’ll also need to confirm your identity with formal ID such as a passport or driving licence and usually attend an interview (either at a Jobcentre or over the phone). In some cases, you can verify your identity online or at home, using the Gov.uk Verify service or by uploading photos of your ID through your Universal Credit account.
At this appointment you agree to a Claimant Commitment – a list of things you’re expected to do, such as job searching, reporting changes, or preparing for work. If someone has already been found to have Limited Capability for Work (LCW) or Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) — also known as being in the Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) or Support Group under ESA — that decision will be transferred to their Universal Credit (UC) claim. They will not be required to look for work or carry out work search activities.
Payments
It usually takes five weeks to get your first Universal Credit payment. If you need money sooner, you can ask for an advance payment, though this is repaid in instalments from future UC payments. After that, UC is paid monthly into your bank account (in Scotland you can choose to be paid twice a month). You can request for Universal Credit (UC) to be paid more frequently and for your rent to be paid directly to your landlord. This can be arranged when you first apply, or later through your online journal if you already have a claim.
Work requirements
Your responsibilities depend on your situation. Some people are expected to look for work or increase their hours, while others (for example, those with health problems or caring responsibilities) may have fewer or no work-related requirements. If too unwell to work full time then you will need to complete a UC50 limited capacity for work form and gain a fit note.
If you disagree with a decision
If you think your payment or entitlement has been worked out incorrectly, you can ask the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for a Mandatory Reconsideration within one month of the decision. If you’re still unhappy, you can take your case to an independent tribunal.
In summary
Universal Credit is the main benefit for working-age people who are struggling financially, whether they’re in or out of work. It’s designed to give one monthly payment that covers basic living costs, with extra amounts available for children, housing, disability, and caring duties.
Fightback can help with all aspects of the claims and appeals process on VIP and with our advocacy services.
What is DLA?
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a UK benefit designed to help with the extra costs of looking after a child who has a disability or health condition.
Important:
- Adults can no longer make new claims for DLA.
- If you’re aged 16 or over and need help with daily living or mobility, you’ll need to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead.
- Children under 16 may still be eligible for Child DLA.
Who can get Child DLA?
Your child may qualify if they:
- Are under 16 years old.
- Live in England, Wales, or Scotland (Northern Ireland has its own system).
- Have lived in Great Britain for at least 6 months out of the last year (different if terminally ill).
- Need substantially more care, attention, or supervision than a child of the same age without a disability.
- Or have mobility difficulties.
You can claim DLA whether you work or not. It is not means-tested (your income and savings don’t affect it).
What does DLA cover?
DLA has two parts (components):
1. Care Component – for help with personal care and supervision.
- Lowest rate – £29.70 per week (some help needed).
- Middle rate – £76.90 per week (frequent help or supervision needed).
- Highest rate – £115.60 per week (constant help or supervision, or if child is terminally ill).
2. Mobility Component – for help with getting around.
- Lower rate – £29.70 per week (some guidance/supervision needed outdoors).
- Higher rate – £81.50 per week (severe mobility difficulties, or can’t walk).
(Amounts are weekly rates as of 2025.)
How to Claim Child DLA
Step 1: Get a Claim Form
You can download a form or request one by phone from the Disability Living Allowance helpline:
0800 121 4600 (textphone 0800 121 4523). You are best starting this pocess via phone as the application will be backdated to that date of the call, otherwise it is the date they receive the form which can take weeks.
Step 2: Fill in the Claim Form
- The form asks about your child’s condition, the help they need, and how this is different from other children their age.
- Include supporting medical evidence if you can (letters from doctors, specialists, care plans). Include support from school such reports highlighting issues and an EHCP.
Step 3: Send the Form
- Post the completed form to the address provided on the form.
- Claims are usually backdated to the date you requested the form.
What happens next?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will review your claim.
You’ll get a letter telling you:
- If your child is eligible.
- Which component(s) they qualify for and at what rate.
If you disagree with a decision
- If your child has a disability, you can ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration within 13 months of the decision.
- If needed, you can appeal to a tribunal.
Key Tips
- Focus on what extra care or supervision your child needs compared to other children their age.
- Use real-life examples (e.g., “My child needs help feeding themselves at every meal” vs. “A typical child their age eats independently”).
- Keep a diary of your child’s needs — this can strengthen your claim.
Fightback can help with all aspects of the claims and appeals process on VIP and with our advocacy services.
What is ESA?
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is a UK benefit for people who have a disability, illness, or health condition that affects their ability to work.
It provides financial support if you can’t work. New Style ESA is based on your National Insurance contributions. Old (legacy) ESA is no longer open to new claims. Income-related ESA and contribution-based ESA were replaced by Universal Credit. Some people still receive these if their claim started before Universal Credit was introduced.
What is PIP?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a UK benefit for people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term health condition or disability.
It helps with the extra costs of daily living and mobility if your condition affects your ability to do everyday tasks or get around.
PIP is not means-tested – your income, savings, or work status do not affect your eligibility.
What does PIP cover?
PIP has two parts, and you may qualify for one or both:
- Daily Living Component – if you need help with everyday activities (e.g., cooking, washing, communicating, managing medication).
- Mobility Component – if you need help getting around (e.g., moving about, planning journeys).
Each component has two rates (standard and enhanced), depending on how your condition affects you.
Eligibility
To qualify, you must:
- Be aged 16+ and under State Pension age when you start your claim.
- Have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability.
- Expect the difficulties to last at least 12 months.
- Struggle with daily living and/or mobility tasks.
PIP is assessed on how your condition affects you, not on your diagnosis.
How much can you get? (as of 2025)
Daily Living Component:
Standard rate – £72.65 per week
Enhanced rate – £108.55 per week
Mobility Component:
Standard rate – £28.70 per week
Enhanced rate – £75.75 per week
(Payments are usually made every 4 weeks, directly into your bank account.)
The Claim Process
Step 1: Start Your Claim
Call the PIP new claims phone line:
0800 917 2222 (textphone 0800 917 7777).
Have ready:
- Your contact details
- Date of birth
- National Insurance number
- Bank/building society account details
- GP or health professional’s details
- Dates of recent stays in hospital, care, or abroad
Step 2: Fill in the PIP2 Form ("How your disability affects you")
You’ll receive the ‘How your disability affects you’ (PIP2) form by post.
This is your chance to explain in detail how your condition affects daily life and mobility.
Include medical evidence, care plans, or supporting letters.
Step 3: Assessment
Most people will be invited to a face-to-face, telephone, or video assessment with a health professional.
They’ll ask about how your condition impacts you day-to-day.
Step 4: Decision
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will review your form, evidence, and assessment report.
You’ll get a letter telling you:
- If you’ve been awarded PIP
- Which component(s) you qualify for
- At what rate
- For how long
If you disagree with a decision
You can usually request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 13 months (rules are different for appointees). If you still believe that this decision is not correct, you can appeal to a tribunal.
Fightback can help with all aspects of the claims and appeals process on VIP and with our advocacy services.
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