Following on from our Court of Protection team update, we are excited to share more details regarding the appointment of Abigail Cuffe as our new Court of Protection Team Leader and Welfare Benefits Advisor. With an impressive 12 years of experience in the benefits and Court of Protection sector, Abigail brings a wealth of unique experience and expertise to her new role and the wider Jackson Lees Group.
Abigail's career began in 2012, working in the Department for Work and Pensions as an Administrative Officer, before later becoming a Debt Management Administrative Officer.
Whilst working in the Department for Work and Pensions, Abigail was responsible for assisting the recovery process of overpaid benefits and outstanding loans.
Abigail dealt with customer queries and worked with customers to set repayment plans that were sustainable yet maximised recovery for the department. In addition, she conducted job search reviews daily with customers claiming Jobseekers Allowance whilst identifying and professionally addressing any problems customers may be experiencing with their benefits and search for work.
Abigail moved into the legal industry in 2014 as a Court of Protection Paralegal and Benefits Expert for a North-West firm, later working in similar roles for other firms across the region. She was responsible for providing high standards of client service, managing her own caseload, and liaising with vulnerable clients to ensure their needs were met.
She took on further responsibilities such as delivering training on new benefits and departmental procedures, dealing with mandatory reconsiderations and appeals of benefit decisions, and attending medical screenings with clients.
In her new role with Jackson Lees Group, Abigail will continue her vital work, ensuring that clients receive the benefits they are entitled to. She will be responsible for conducting annual reviews and reassessments within three months of receiving an order to confirm any additional benefit eligibility.
Her thorough approach ensures no overpayments or unclaimed benefits go unnoticed, covering disability benefits, personal independence payments, employment support allowance, and Universal Credit.
Speaking on her unique skillset and what it will provide for her team and Jackson Lees Group, Abigail says:
I truly find joy in securing positive outcomes for vulnerable clients, who are often the ones society tends to overlook. Knowing that my efforts help them get the benefits they deserve is incredibly rewarding. I’m also excited about expanding our welfare benefits support within the team and for other deputies, in line with the Office of the Public Guardian's emphasis on accuracy and efficiency. Looking forward, my goals include re-establishing direct contact with our vulnerable clients so we can move beyond relying solely on referrals from other solicitors, I’d also like to build a dedicated team to support these crucial services.”
If you would like to hear more about how Abigail and our Court of Protection team could help you or a loved one, please call us today or make an enquiry.