HAVING read the article on the street drinkers of York, I was disgusted to read they spent their benefits on drink and are given a bed and food at night (November 1).
They are very fortunate to be able to receive benefit in the first place. Throughout the last year I have been unable to receive incapacity benefit owing to insufficient National Insurance stamps. My illness is classed as life-threatening but not terminal.
Perhaps these sad souls ought to think of myself and others, caught in this trap of insufficient NI stamps (and having a husband who works more than 21 hours a week).
My husband has been very caring over the past 12 months and has had to work more than 55 hours a week to keep up the bills (council tax included).
These men should be ashamed of themselves and get out in the community and find work. My only wish is that I will be able to go back to work soon and my husband can finally relax and have a well-earned drink.
Mrs D Watkinson,
Knapton Close, Strensall, York.
Updated: 11:47 Tuesday, November 12, 2002
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