A former Intel employee from Swindon whose parents have struggled applying for benefits says that elderly residents aren't accessing the allowances and pension credit they deserve.
That's exactly why Chris Humphrey has now brought support company Grey Matters Consultancy to Swindon, to help the elderly and vulnerable claim back the money they're entitled to from the Department of Work and Pensions.
Father-of-two Chris, who lives in Wroughton, says that he spent 20 years working for Intel, but it was his experience supporting his elderly parents which opened his eyes to the issue.
“My dad is 87 and has Alzheimer’s, and my mum, who is 12 years younger, is his full-time carer but has her own health problems,” he explained.
“I was told about Grey Matters Consultancy because Dad was in a lower rate of attendance allowance, but we thought he could qualify for the higher rate.
"It was Grey Matters who said that Mum could be entitled to attendance allowance as well. I was so impressed with they explained it all and made it so easy.
"My parents are both now on the higher rate of attendance allowance which is worth over £11,000 a year to them.”
Chris Humphrey and his two brothers struggled to know how to help their elderly parents access the right financial support. (Image: Chris Humphreys)
Every year, more than £5 billion is unclaimed in attendance allowance across the UK.
Chris' new division now covers Swindon, Royal Wootton Bassett, Wroughton, Chiseldon and Marlborough, and guides elderly and vulnerable customers through applying for benefits such as attendance and disability allowance, pension credits, personal independence payments for a cost of £390.
As well as helping with benefits claims, Chris also has a Lasting Power of Attorney service priced at £330, helping people complete LPAs – which nominate an attorney to manage a person’s affairs if they become incapacitated – and Blue Badge applications.
"With Chris Humphrey at the helm of our new Swindon franchise, I am confident that his personal experience and professional background will be instrumental in making a significant impact," said Caroline Romero, founder of Grey Matters Consultancy.
“Chris reflects our core mission of empowering families with the support they need and we are so excited to see the positive changes he will bring to the Swindon community.”
The father-of-two added: “Through my parents’ experience I realised how hard it is to get help, it is a real minefield.
“But I am passionate about helping other older and vulnerable people in our community to make a real, tangible difference to people’s lives.”
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