Further to Fiona Scott’s articles of July 25 regarding benefits, although we recognise that there are many deserving cases who should be entitled to benefits, we also know of people who know how to “work the system”.

One family of three known to us have been able to claim DLA for the father and for the son (although both very mildly affected), two lots of carer’s allowance (one for their son and one for an elderly relative who lives nearby) and, now that this son has grown up and is an adult, the parents refuse to give him any money as they say he would lose his current benefits which pay for all his housing, living expenses and pocket money, even though the parents own several properties and could give their own son a home.

Neither parent has worked for at least 20 years although quite capable of doing so and, now that they are pensioners, the wife gets a full State pension as the State has paid all her contributions. They also have a motability car and badges although they do not have restricted mobility. This sort of thing is what the Government is trying to tackle.

The government has recognised that it is not fair on the vast majority of us who go out to work to support our children and provide them with a good work ethic. We know that benefits and food banks are necessary and we don’t mind contributing to them but we do need to know that those who really need help are the ones who are getting it.

Name and address supplied.