A disabled man has said he felt helpless and suicidal after fraudsters used his identity to claim benefits.
Peter, whose name has been changed to protect his identity, has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and epilepsy.
The 44-year-old’s bank cards, driving licence and phone were taken when he was attacked and robbed last year. Since then, his identity appears to have been misused.
“It’s been so bad I’ve thought about taking my own life. I’m just existing, not living, I just wanted someone to listen and help, but no-one believes me,” Peter said.
Official letters from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have been arriving at his flat addressed to a woman, believed to be fraudulently claiming Carer’s Allowance and Universal Credit using Peter’s identity.
He also suspects his mail is being intercepted.
“They’ve tried to get my housing benefit too,” Peter said.
The DWP confirmed it was investigating and said: “We are arranging for a member of our team to visit this customer to discuss his case.”
Peter’s benefit payments have been suspended during the inquiry.
His mother, Carol, has been fighting to get Birmingham City Council adult social services involved. She is unable to provide a home or visit her son due to her own disabilities.
“I’ve written to everybody, but nobody wants to help,” she said.
“There are crimes still being committed, fraud, and we’ve got evidence his benefits are being claimed.”
Peter said his bank account had been hit with a wave of online payments, leaving him in debt “possibly into the thousands.”
West Midlands Police told the that the fraud allegations were being handled by Action Fraud.
‘Nobody cares’
The family is also calling on Birmingham City Council to address the condition of Peter’s flat, which suffered flooding years ago.
He is now on an NHS waiting list for an undiagnosed skin condition, which he believes is caused by an insect infestation.
“I’m still getting bitten and I’ve got scars all over my body,” he said. “I’ve never experienced anything like this. And when people don’t believe you, what can you do?”
Carol said the stress of advocating for her son had taken a toll on her own health.
“Nobody cares about a vulnerable adult,” she said. “They say they’ll help, but they never do. The number of letters I’ve written is unbelievable.
“He’s in a mess. Worried about fraud. Scared to leave the flat. The living conditions are terrible.”
Birmingham City Council said: “A good home is vital for people to live a healthy life, and we’ll continue to support Peter with these repairs and any other wider issues.
“We have visited Peter’s property last month to evaluate the issues.
“A further repair has been booked for later this month and we’ll continue to reach out to resolve these issues with Peter’s support.”