Compliance interview

I was called in for a compliance interview today, they wanted to know if my carer who is a friend and lives in the same house as me was in fact my partner. I was aware that the questions asked were the tip of the iceberg, and the manner of my answers would probably tick boxes to questions not asked.
does anyone know what the criteria is for defining a relationship is used.
The interviewer was so busy being "OK" with same sex partnership that he didn't hear that I was not in one.
The completed form will be sent to a decision maker.

Hi Justin,

This used to be known as 'living together as husband and wife' or 'LTAHAW' in the days before the DWP recognised same-sex relationships. You may find something if you google this or look in the decision makers guide on the DWP website as it's not really something we can deal with.

There's no single issue that's crucial, but it's things like: do you have separate bank accounts; separate shopping; separate cupboards for food and so on.

Good luck,

Steve

I too have a friend who acts as my carer. Please could you let me know what benefits might be affected? I receive IB & DLA. I do not claim any means tested benefits

hi dont know if this helps but I was questioned as I receive the severe disability premium and I have a flatmate and they wanted to presume that he was my partner. I had a home visit by a DSS officer and all i did was be truthful and explain that we were only flatmates and we shared the rent and nothing else. It was an hour long interview and I made sure my flatmate was there as well. I signed the statement and had no problems at all. Just be truthful and basically unless they can prove otherwise they really cannot deny you anything. Hope that helps.

I once shared a flat with someone who had to get help with his state help with his rent when he was made redundant for a few months, I think they came around and checked that we had separate bedrooms, etc.

I would imagine having separate food bills, savings, current account and food/clothes cupboards would help - make it obvious it is a flat share. If your carer is in a relationship with someone else would help?

I now live with my hubby and to be honest he is my unpaid carer when he gets home from work!