Social Welfare Appeal G0031

The Appellant applied for Jobseekers Allowance (JA), on the March 22th 2010. The claim was refused as the Deciding Officer (DO) was of the opinion that the Appellant had failed to show sufficient evidence that his means did not exceed the specified weekly limit. He provided no credible evidence to show how he had survived for the 12 years prior to the date of his claim, other than a personal statement to the effect that he had been supported by family and friends. This decision was appealed and an oral hearing granted. At the oral hearing, the Appellant provided written evidence demonstrating that he had been financially supported by family and friends. The Appeals Officer (AO) was satisfied that his means were, in fact NIL and the appeal was allowed.