DWP Seeks £36,000 Repayment from Father After Cricket Video Incident
**DWP Demands Father Repays £36,000 in PIP After Cricket Game**
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is requiring Shaun Rigby, a 37-year-old father, to repay £36,000 in Personal Independence Payments (PIP) after he was filmed playing cricket. Rigby, who lost his leg below the knee in a tractor accident during childhood, claims that the authorities are misinterpreting his ability to participate in sports.
The incident occurred when Rigby was seen playing cricket, assisted by a crutch and a runner. This footage prompted the DWP to review his claim for support, asserting that it contradicts the level of assistance he had declared needing. Rigby expressed his disbelief upon receiving a letter from the DWP stating, "They are saying my daily needs are not what I said they were and have said I've got to pay back £36,000."
Despite the DWP's assertions, Rigby defended his situation, explaining, "But they have said I should not have any of it because I play cricket; they have footage of me playing, but just because I play cricket doesn't mean my leg has grown back. I still need help getting around." This case highlights the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities when navigating the benefits system and raises questions about the criteria used to determine entitlement to support.