The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has ordered a Shropshire man to repay a staggering £36,000 in Personal Independence Payment (PIP) benefits, following an investigation that included footage of him playing cricket.
A Lifelong Passion Under Scrutiny
Shaun Rigby, 37, from Shropshire, had his leg amputated following a childhood tractor accident. He has played cricket since the age of seven, adapting his game to use a crutch and employing a runner when batting. Mr Rigby has been in receipt of PIP since 2016 to help with his daily living needs.
However, his participation in the sport triggered a DWP review. "I got a letter this morning," Shaun explained. "They are saying my daily needs are not what I said they were and have said I've got to pay back £36,000." The case has been ongoing since August last year, causing significant stress.
The Impact of a DWP Clampdown
The demand for repayment is part of a wider DWP crackdown on benefit claims. Shaun expressed his despair, stating, "I don't know what we are going to do. I suppose I'll just have to do more work to pay it off." The stress of the prolonged case has taken a toll on his wellbeing.
He also revealed the DWP had previously removed his mobility car, forcing his mother and sister to club together to buy him a vehicle. "Without one I would not be able to work," he said, highlighting the practical challenges of the decision.
Adapting Sport for Disability and Managing Pain
Shaun Rigby strongly contests the DWP's assertion that playing cricket means he is not entitled to support. "Just because I play cricket doesn't mean my leg has grown back. I still need help getting around," he emphasised.
He detailed the considerable effort and medication required for him to participate. He is prescribed co-codamol, amitriptyline and naproxen by his GP. "On a cricket day I take more medication in the morning to help me through the day and make the pain more tolerable," he said. He plays in limited fielding positions and the days after a match are "quite bad".
For Shaun, the social and mental health benefits are crucial. "I played for the social side of things, and my attitude to life is to try doing things I enjoy while I still can." He is now considering whether to fight the decision through a tribunal, a process he notes took a friend more than 18 months.
