A former soldier who suffered severe injuries while trying to protect his family during the Liverpool victory parade attack has been refused Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Dan Eveson, 37, sustained a torn trapezius muscle, broken sternum, and three cracked ribs when a car driven by Paul Doyle ploughed into crowds.
Mr Eveson was attempting to push his partner Sheree Aldridge and their five-month-old son Teddy out of harm's way. Despite the pram being thrown 15 feet, Teddy escaped injury, while Ms Aldridge spent weeks in hospital with a leg wound that still affects her.
Forced to give up his factory job due to back pain, Mr Eveson applied for PIP in February, citing inability to stand for more than 30 minutes and difficulty with daily tasks. However, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) rejected his claim, stating he did not meet the required points.
“I felt disgusted,” Mr Eveson told The Independent. “My life completely changed on the day of the parade crash. I’ve been through hell; from working and enjoying family life to now stuck at home and using food banks.” The couple, who have six children, receive around £1,600 a month in Universal Credit, which covers their £850 rent and other expenses.
Mr Eveson has been on an NHS physiotherapy waiting list since March and has had only two counselling sessions. He described the attack as “like a war zone” and said he struggles with flashbacks and anger. Ms Aldridge added that PIP would have helped with her partner's recovery and their financial situation.
