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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Politics
Vincent Cullinane

A cycling accident left me struggling on benefits: My Wigan Pier Story

Hard drive technician Vincent Cullinane, 48, is struggling to survive on benefits after a cycling accident. He tells Maryam Qaiser why he's desperate for more support.

My life completely changed two years ago when I was knocked off my bicycle.

It left me with a back injury, severe nerve damage and spinal damage. I struggle to stand and sit, which doesn't leave me with many job options.

(Daily Mirror)

Before the accident I was working as a hard drive technician but now I just can't work because the injury has affected my body from the waist down.

I get no support from anyone, I just have £290 in ESA support and the support of charities like Homeless Street Angels.

I have tried to get help from social services - for some care support, but I don't seem to get anywhere.

Have Your Say

Tell us about the issues affecting you.

We are retracing the journey George Orwell made in his book, The Road to Wigan Pier , to share your stories of working and unemployed poverty.

They'll appear in a regular series in the Daily Mirror newspaper and here, on our special anniversary website.

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