I can’t get a crucial letter from the DWP to help my brother

Apply for credit cards

I am my brother’s carer and deal with all aspects of his finances, including his benefits and paying his bills.

I am trying to apply for a discount on his water bill through Yorkshire Water’s bill cap scheme for those on income-based benefits.

To do this, I need a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) that states the amount of income-related employment and support allowance (Esa) he receives, and how often it is paid.

Crucially, it must state his address or the water company will not accept it.

I have written to the DWP three times, and to his MP three times, but all I get are letters with my address on them (as his legal appointee).

I am a disabled carer struggling on benefits, against all the odds, to look after my partner and brother.

Credit burau

CA, Hull

You hit a brick wall with what should have been a simple request made on your brother’s behalf.

We contacted the DWP and it has now issued a letter with the right address on it so you can proceed with the bill cap scheme application. You are very grateful.

If you receive an income-based benefit, or are part of a low-income household, it is worth going online to see if your water company has a similar discount scheme you could be eligible for.

Every cost saving helps in these tough times.

We welcome letters but cannot answer individually. Email us at consumer.champions@theguardian.com or write to Consumer Champions, Money, the Guardian, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU. Please include a daytime phone number. Submission and publication of all letters is subject to our terms and conditions