Mum-of-nine killed herself after having benefits axed
A MOTHER-of-nine took her own life because her £150-a-week benefits had been stopped, an inquest heard.
Jodey Whiting, 42, did not attend a work capability assessment after missing a letter for her appointment because she was in hospital.
Plagued by ill health, including a brain cyst, she wrote suicide notes to her children, aged 17 to 25, and her mother. Jodey, of Stockton-on- Tees, Co Durham, said she could not live without her benefits from the Department of Work and Pensions. Her mother, Joy Dove, said: “I blame the DWP for her death. She left notes saying she could not face having no money for food and the bills.” A DWP spokeswoman said: “Suicide is a very complex issue. Jobcentre Plus is investigating a complaint from the family and will respond shortly.” Verdict of Teesside inquest: Suicide.