£5 a week. She also upped her hours of work from 15 to 30 and even gave her beloved border collie Meggie to a friend.
And, says Charlotte, her mum told her GP she was contemplating suicide.
Finally, on June 14 she took an overdose at her one-bed flat. An inquest in Maidstone heard that Penny’s mental health deteriorated rapidly after her benefits were cut. Coroner Georgina Gibbs recorded a verdict of suicide, saying Penny left notes for her children. Charlotte believes the benefits system penalises people in work and fails to take mental health conditions seriously.
She said: “They are ruining people’s lives. They have blood on their hands. Whatever self respect people have left, the authorities are crushing. I don’t think the DWP understand how bad it can be living with depression and anxiety.”
Brother Alex, 31, added: “There is a serious lack of support. The authorities should have been trying to help her.”
Canterbury City Council, the DWP and NHS Business Services Authority all extended their sympathies to the family.
The council said: “The law compels us to notify customers of overpayments and seek recovery where appropriate. In Miss Oliver’s case, recovery was by small weekly deductions. We encourage people to contact us so we can resolve concerns.” The DWP said: “We are committed to ensuring people with health conditions get support they’re entitled to.
“Decisions are made following consideration of all information, including medical evidence.
“Claimants have the right to a mandatory reconsideration of any decision and can further appeal to an independent tribunal.
“Ms Oliver was provided with this information and advice on how to apply for other in-work benefits.”