A heartbreaking story has come to light about a single father of three, Phillip Herron, who tragically took his own life after struggling to make ends meet while waiting for Universal Credit. The 34-year-old had been drowning in debt, including payday loans with exorbitant interest rates, and had found himself unable to support his children after leaving his job to care for them.
Phillip’s mother, Sheena Derbyshire, revealed that her son had been overwhelmed by his financial struggles, which included debts totaling around £20,000 and an eviction notice. Despite his best efforts, Phillip had been unable to escape the cycle of debt and poverty. In his final moments, he uploaded a picture of himself crying to social media before taking his life in his car.
The Universal Credit system, introduced in 2013, has been criticized for leaving claimants waiting for up to five weeks for their first payment. This delay has been blamed for driving families into deeper debt and poverty. While the Department for Work and Pensions has emphasized the complexity of suicide, Phillip’s story highlights the desperate need for reform in the Universal Credit system.
Sheena has been left devastated by the loss of her son, and is now speaking out to raise awareness about the flaws in the Universal Credit system. She hopes that sharing Phillip’s story will prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. Margaret Greenwood, Shadow Work & Pensions Secretary, has also criticized the system, calling it “cruel and flawed” and urging for urgent reforms.
Phillip’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the need for a more compassionate and effective benefits system. As we reflect on this tragic loss, we must also acknowledge the urgent need for reform and work towards creating a system that truly supports those in need.
