Shaun a devoted husband and father issued to repay £36,00 back
Shaun Rigby, a devoted father and husband, has been ordered to repay £36,000 in disability benefits after a video surfaced of him playing cricket. Born in Telford, Shropshire, Shaun has overcome incredible odds since losing his leg below the knee in a tragic tractor accident when he was just two years old. Despite his physical challenges, he has strived to live as fully as possible, embracing activities like cricket not only for his own mental and physical health but also to share joyful moments with his family.
Since 2016, Shaun has been receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP) to support his daily living and mobility, which are significantly impacted by his disability. Three years ago, Shaun was also granted a Motability car, which has now been unjustly confiscated, stripping away his independence and ability to care for our family of four children.
The decision to demand repayment of the benefits and removal of his Motability car came after a brief video of Shaun engaging in a light-hearted community cricket match was misconstrued. Playing cricket does not negate Shaun's disability; it showcases his determination to lead a fulfilling life despite it. It is crucial to understand that participating in adaptive sports is a well-known form of rehabilitation and psychological well-being for individuals with disabilities.
This unjust decision not only threatens Shaun’s welfare but also that of our entire family. Caring for four young children often requires the flexibility and mobility that only a vehicle can provide, especially in semi-rural areas like Telford. Losing access to these essential benefits exposes us to undue hardship and stress.
We urge the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to reassess Shaun’s case, acknowledging the context and intent behind his cricket participation. Reversing this decision will ensure Shaun continues to live with dignity and support, reflecting the very purpose that disability benefits are intended to serve.
Please support our family by signing this petition and help us fight for a fair reassessment of Shaun’s situation. Your signature can bring attention to the nuanced realities of living with a disability and advocate for justice in the benefits review process. Let's bring Shaun's story to light and demand fairness from the DWP.
Lauren Rigby Contact the author of the petition