Q I’ve lived in a house and paid rent for 10 years to my sister, who owns the property but lives in Australia.

I’m about to be made redundant and have been told I can’t claim housing benefit as it’s family and I should move to a housing association property and then she can rent to another tenant, probably on benefit. It seems crazy.

A I don’t think that’s right. You are excluded from local housing allowance if you live in the same house as a close relative who also lives there, or a former partner who used to live in the house. Neither applies to you.

You do need to have a legally enforceable lease and be able to prove the rent you’re paying, but on what you’ve told me, you should qualify.

There may be more to your circumstances, but I suggest you contact Shelter at www.scotland.shelter.org.uk or the CAB at www.citizensadvice.org.uk

 

Work hours changed

Q I worked for 10 years in the same place. I then transferred to new employers with TUPE.

My contracted hours are 37.5, including a paid half-hour lunch break. I have been advised that to bring me into line with company policy I will not be entitled to my paid break. I am willing to work an extra half-hour a day to keep my 37.5-hour week, but have been advised I have to drop this paid break and drop to 35 hours a week.

A The basic law is that an employer, even a new one taking over under TUPE, cannot change your contract without being in breach -- unless there is a clause in your original contract allowing such changes. Your options are to accept the change, refuse it and resign and treat the resignation as constructive dismissal, or to work on and retain the right to have the court or tribunal rule on the change.

 

Exposing benefit cheat

Q We work with a man who claims invalidity benefit, has a mobility car and has boasted that he has done this for years and will not get caught.

We work hard -- some of us single, honest mums who can’t get overtime. Where can we report this gent for benefit fraud?

A Do you know what really grinds my gears? People claiming hooky benefits, which you and I are funding from our honestly earned income and lawfully paid taxes.

I am delighted to advise that the National Benefit Fraud Hotline number is 0800 854 440.

Lines are open between 7am and 11pm, seven days a week, or you can report a thief online at www.dwp.gov.uk/benefit-thieves

 

Can family contest will?

Q I want to make a will to leave all my money to charities as I don’t wish to give my selfish family more than they have. I am a widow, have one daughter and several brothers and sisters. Can they contest the will?

A Assuming you’re not mentally incapacitated or drunk, you can make whatever will you like. The siblings have no claim, but your daughter has a legal claim that can make inroads. She’s not entitled to your house but can claim up to half of your money and investments.