The benefits Ms Buckley received – on and off between November 2021 and August 2023 – included limited capability for work payments and support for mortgage interest payments.
After being told to pay back the money, Ms Buckley lodged an appeal which proved unsuccessful, before the Debt Management Office, external told her the debt would be waived.
Ms Buckley said she was even paid £350 in compensation.
But last month, she received a letter which said she would have to pay back the entire £5,086, even though she “did not contribute to the overpayment”.
“I was shocked because I was saving for my 60th birthday and I was hoping to do something for it, but I won’t be able to do that now,” said Ms Buckley.
“It has caused me significant hardship and I am not happy about it but I will just have to pay it back, I suppose – I’ve said I will pay it back at £1 per month.”
The DWP has now said it is looking into Ms Buckley’s case.
A DWP spokesperson added: “Support is in place for people who need to make repayments and we are currently exploring all options on how best to reduce fraud and error.”
